bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of differences in precision vascular anatomy on surgical outcomes of distal pancreatectomy: a retrospective study
Authors: Fukada Masahiro , Mitsui Noriki , Horaguchi Takeshi , Hatanaka Yuji , Yasufuku Itaru , Sato Yuta , Tajima Jesse Yu , Kiyama Shigeru , Tanaka Yoshihiro , Murase Katsutoshi , Matsuhashi Nobuhisa
Published: November 2024

Background
Minimally invasive distal pancreatectomy (MIDP) is increasingly performed worldwide; therefore, a better understanding of precision vascular anatomy during surgery is important. However, the effect of differences in precision vascular anatomy on surgical outcomes remains unclear. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of precision vascular anatomical variations on surgical outcomes and identify factors that influence open and minimally invasive surgery (MIS) outcomes.
Methods
This was a single-center retrospective study involving 123 patients who underwent distal pancreatectomy (DP). We analyzed the correlation between precision anatomical variations, namely, (i) the root of the splenic artery (SpA; type 1 and type 2), (ii) the parent artery of the dorsal pancreatic artery, (iii) confluence patterns of the left gastric vein, and (iv) the inferior mesenteric vein and surgical outcomes. We also performed a risk analysis of prolonged operation time, considering surgery-related factors.
Results
SpA type 2 was only significantly associated with longer operation time (p < 0.01) in DP procedures. In all DP cases, the pancreatic resection line (above the portal vein: odds ratio [OR] 3.47; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.69–11.18; p < 0.01), SpA type (type 2; OR 2.77; 95% CI 1.16–6.94; p = 0.02), and surgery type (MIS; OR 5.24; 95% CI 2.17–14.00; p < 0.001) were independently associated with prolonged operation times. In open-DP cases, high body mass index (> 24; OR 7.24; 95% CI 1.89–36.34; p < 0.01), tumor location (pancreatic body; OR 6.89; 95% CI 1.79–33.79; p < 0.01), and SpA type (type 2; OR 5.86; 95% CI 1.72–24.65; p < 0.01) showed significant association with prolonged operations. In MIDP cases, sex (male; OR 9.07; 95% CI 2.61–38.65; p < 0.001) and the pancreatic resection line (above the portal vein; OR 4.12; 95% CI 1.18–17.08; p = 0.03) showed significant associations.
Conclusions
SpA type 2 may affect surgical outcomes negatively. Therefore, recognizing and approaching precision vascular anatomy appropriately are important. MIS may be effective in mitigating the negative effects of variations in precision vascular anatomy.
All-optical Loss-tolerant Distributed Quantum Sensing
Authors: Nehra Rajveer , Oh Changhun , Jiang Liang , Marandi Alireza
Published: November 2024

Distributed quantum sensing (DQS) leverages quantum resources to estimate an unknown global property of a networked quantum sensor beyond the classical limit. We propose and analyze an all-optical resource-efficient scheme for the next-generation DQS systems.
Our method utilizes phase-sensitive optical parametric amplifiers (OPAs) and linear interferometers and achieves the sensitivity close to the optimal limit, as determined by the quantum Fisher information of the entangled resource state. Furthermore, it utilizes high-gain OPA-assisted detection, offering critical advantages of increased bandwidth and loss tolerance, in contrast to conventional methods employing balanced homodyne detection (BHD). We show the efficacy of our proposal for displacement sensing and show its loss tolerance against high levels of photon loss, thus circumventing the major obstacle in current BHD-based approaches. Our architectural analysis shows that our scheme can be realized with current quantum photonic technology.
Toxicological evaluation of some antidepressant drugs on carbonic anhydrase isoenzymes (hCA I, hCA II), acetylcholinesterase and butyrylcholinesterase enzymes activitiy: an in vitro and in slico study
Authors: İşgör Mehmet Mustafa , Turkan Fikret , Huyut Zübeyir , Karaman Muhammet
Published: November 2024

Depression is a common and serious medical illness that adversely affects the person how they feel, how they think and behave. Some common antidepressant drugs were investigated in the study. The effects of these drugs on carbonic anhydrases 1 and 2 enzymes, glutathione S-transferase, acetylcholine esterase and butyrylcholine esterase enzymes were investigated. The study was carried out in in vitro conditions. The toxicological effects of drugs were interpreted as inhibition values of enzymes. IC50 values were calculated first by inhibition studies. Then Ki values were calculated for all enzymes. hCA I, h CA II enzymes Ki value was found in Maprotiline as 6.57 ± 0.5 and 4.15 ± 0.11. It was found in Imipramine for AChE and BChE enzymes 0.8 ± 0.14, 3.58 ± 0.21 with values of Ki. Binding affinities were calculated as -7.624kcal/mol and − 5.850kcal/mol for best-poses of Maprotiline hCA I and hCA II and as -9.864 kcal/mol and − 9.317 kcal/mol for best-poses of Imipramine-AChE and BChE, respectively. 2 N-methyl- propylamine and N, N-dimethyl- propylamine moieties have played an essential role for inhibition of the enzymes.
Enabling solid sample analysis in liquid spectrophotometers with a 3d-printed cuvette
Authors: Kono Junichiro , Doumani Jacques , Mansfield Henry , Baydin Andrey , Sasmal Somesh , Tahchi Mario El , Gao Weilu
Published: November 2024

Most commercial systems for ultraviolet-visible (UV-VIS), Fourier-transform infrared, circular dichroism (CD), and fluorescence spectroscopies are designed for measurement of liquid samples. Moreover, adapters enabling the measurement of solid samples are expensive or unavailable for most commercial instruments. Consequently, there is a significant need for solid sample adapters that enable measurement of both liquid and solid samples with a single system. Here, we report two versions of a solid sample adapter cuvette that can be used in most commercial spectroscopy instruments designed for liquid samples. One version is designed for techniques that do not require changing the sample orientation, and the other allows easy sample rotation. We successfully fabricated these cuvettes by 3D printing with both fused deposition modeling and stereolithography and demonstrated how they enable us to study the optical properties of macroscopic films of aligned carbon nanotubes by performing UV-VIS and CD spectroscopy measurements with the cuvettes. These 3D printed cuvettes and their implementation will help enable a wide range of experiments at a low cost.
ANCA-Negative Eosinophilic Granulomatosis And Polyangiitis With An Underlying CMV Enteritis Leading To Small Bowel Perforation- A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Barjas Haidar , Alkhatib Mohammed , Alqalalwah Adalah , Obiedat Sarah , Eldean Mouhammad Sharaf , Elzouki Abdel-Nasser
Published: November 2024

Eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis (EGPA) is a form of vasculitis that involves the small to medium-sized blood vessels. It can be an ANCA positive or negative disease. EPGA can affect virtually any organ system with the most predominant system being the respiratory system, however, gastrointestinal tract involvement has been reported in a minority of patients. We report a young pleasant gentleman who initially presented with a bout of gastroenteritis and eosinophilia where further investigations showed evidence of vasculitis and the hospital course was complicated by cardiac ischemic event and small bowel perforation mandated resecting a segment of the small bowel surgically. Histopathology of the resected small bowel showed evidence of vasculitis with eosinophilic infiltration and extensive Cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection which could be the main underlying culprit behind bowel perforation.
Effects of seedling nursery lifespan and pot size on growth and survival rate of Grevillea robusta,in .Eastern Amhara
Authors: Alemu Andualem Ayalew , Ayalew Gezahagn Getachew , Mengistie Hodaddis Kassahun , Sisay Derbie Wudu , Menber Gebeyehu Alamrie , Alle Tigabu Redae , Ayene Muluken Wudu
Published: November 2024

Gravellia robusta is selected for study due to a prominent priority and potential species for plantation, rehabilitation of degraded lands and agroforestry purposes, given its ecological and economic significance. The research aimed to investigate the effect of different seedling nursery life span (4, 5, and 6 months) and different pot size (8cm, 10cm, and 12cm) influence growth parameters of G.robusta. Root length, shoot length, and the ratio of root length to shoot length were measured in the nursery, whereas root collar diameter, diameter at breast height, height, and survival rate, volume and MAI were encompassed in the field. The experiment was conducted using a randomized complete block design in both nursery and field. The data were analyzed using R software version 4.3.2. Results revealed significant effects of pot size and nursery life span at p < 0.05 in terms of shoot length in the nursery which has implication for the presence of large root length in the nursery. The study concludes that, for mid-altitude regions, pot sizes and nursery life spans do not significantly affect the growth and survival of G.robusta. It would be beneficial to study further how longer months affect the growth and survival rate of G.robusta seedlings in order to clarify the effects of longer months.
Moral Distress and Compassion Fatigue Among Healthcare Workers During the COVID-19 Pandemic: The Moderating Role of Organizational Support
Authors: Quan Xin , Li Pei-Fen , Burnett Christopher
Published: November 2024

The COVID-19 pandemic has put healthcare workers in various morally distressful situations while undertaking demanding tasks of providing needed care for patients. Research has shown that moral distress could lead to long-lasting negative physiological and psychological consequences among healthcare workers and worsened job retention among healthcare organizations (Corley et al., 2001, Morley, 2018). Studies have reported mental health outcomes such as anxiety, depression, burnout, posttraumatic stress disorder, and compassion fatigue that resulted from moral distress during the COVID-19 pandemic (Norman et al., 2021, Whitehead et al., 2021). This study filled the gap in the literature by employing Lazarus and Folkman’s (1984) transactional theory of stress and coping to investigate how moral distressful events create stressful outcomes and how coping resources mitigate the negative impacts. Structural equation modeling was used to perform a moderated mediation analysis of study variables. The result of this study supported the mediating role of moral distress in the relationship between morally distressful event and compassion fatigue, and the moderating role of organizational support in the relationship between morally distressful event and moral distress. These findings suggested developing effective interventions to mitigate the negative impacts of moral distressful events for healthcare workers during and after the COVID-19 pandemic.
Effect of bariatric surgery on TSH levels and levothyroxine dosage in patients with thyroid disease
Authors: Camastra Stefania , Patrizio Armando , Palumbo Maria Anna , Astiarraga Brenno , Redi Giacomo , Moretto Carlo , Bellini Rosario , Antonelli Alessandro
Published: November 2024

Objectives
Bariatric surgery might impact on the thyroid function test and, in hypothyroid patients, the dose of levothyroxine (LT4), but data are not univocal. We examined the change of thyroid function in the first year after bariatric surgery in euthyroid patients and in patients with thyroid disease on LT4 comparing the effects of Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) vs sleeve gastrectomy (SG).
Methods
The data was collected from medical records of hospitalization of 235 patients (104 SG and 131 RYGB) who underwent pre-surgical work-up and from outpatient medical records of the same patients at 45 days, 3–6 months and 1-year visits after surgery. In the final analysis we included 69 patients on LT4 therapy (43 Tr-RYGB and 26 Tr-SG) and 85 patients without thyroid diseases with normal thyroid function (48 Ct-RYGB and 37 Ct-SG), who served as matched controls.
Results
The mean body weight reduction for al cohort was in 31.4 ± 0.7% after 1 year from the surgery. In the two Nt groups, TSH levels remained stable throughout the observation period, without differences for type of surgery and without relationship with body weight. After bariatric surgery, the patients treated with LT4, belonging to both Tr-RYGB and Tr-SG, needed to increase the dosage per body weight to achieve stable TSH. At 1 year, the increase of LT4/kg/die was higher in the Tr-RYGB group than Tr-SG group (0.44 vs 0.30 mcg/kg/die, p = 0.032).
Conclusions
In patients with severe obesity and normal thyroid function, TSH levels are not related to body weight change. Patients treated with LT4, after bariatric surgery need to increase the dosage pro kg of body weight of the LT4 and the increase is higher after surgery with malabsorptive component (RYGB) compared to restrictive surgery (SG).
Comparison of Different Maintenance Treatments Options for Newly Diagnosed BRCAwt Advanced Ovarian Cancer: A Retrospective Cohort Analysis
Authors: Chen Xi , Fang Chenyan , Guo Yanglong , Zhang Yingli
Published: November 2024

Introduction:
Niraparib and bevacizumab are the two major maintenance treatment options for newly diagnosed advanced ovarian cancer (AOC) cases with BRCA wild-type (BRCAwt), irrespective of HRD status. Furthermore, there are a considerable number of BRCAwt ovarian cancer patients with unknown HRD status in China. The goal of this study was to compare niraparib and bevacizumab for maintenance therapy.
Methods
Retrospective data were collected for newly diagnosed BRCAwt AOC patients who underwent niraparib or bevacizumab maintenance treatment. Progression free survival (PFS) was examined and propensity score matching (PSM) to adjust for potential differences in baseline patient characteristics in both cohorts.
Results
Overall, 103 patients were enrolled, with 60 administered niraparib and 43 treated with bevacizumab. Patients administered bevacizumab showed a slightly higher risk of relapse than niraparib group, with higher proportion of stage IV (53.49% vs. 30.00%) and partial response rate after chemotherapy (40.48% vs. 13.33%). Median PFS (mPFS) was not reached [NR (95% CI 26.94-NR)] after niraparib treatment, vs. 13.77 months (95% CI 8.51–24.44) in the bevacizumab group (HR = 0.247, p < 0.0001). After adjustment for baseline patient characteristics by PSM, 33 patients were analyzed in each cohort. mPFS after PSM was still longer with niraparib [NR (95% CI 19.55-NR)] than bevacizumab [18.30 months (HR = 0.360, 95% CI 8.90-25.26; p = 0.005).
Conclusion
This analysis showed that niraparib confers enhanced survival benefits than bevacizumab in BRCAwt AOC with or without baseline modification. Both therapeutic regimens were well-tolerated in the real-world setting. This work provides an important reference for maintenance treatment in BRCAwt AOC patients with unknown HRD status.
Management And outcome of prosthetic valve obstruction: A Single-Center Experience
Authors: Tolah Majed , Alharbi Ibraheem H , Sandogj Hasan , abdelrehim Ayman , Lami Nouf , Alkhalaf Thekra , Fallatah Baraa , Utuanis Shyelene , shabaan Ahmed
Published: November 2024

Background
Obstructive prosthetic valve thrombosis is a life-threatening complication associated with high morbidity and mortality. Evaluation of outcomes of surgical management and identification of the perioperative variables associated with poor prognosis is necessary to provide appropriate interventions.
Results
We conducted a retrospective analysis of 39 patients who underwent redo surgery for obstructive prosthetic valve at the Madinah Cardiac Center, Saudi Arabia. Between January 2017 to October 2023 Preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative factors that influenced the outcome were analyzed. The nature of the obstructed valve was commonly mechanical (32/39, 82.1%) located in the mitral position (30/39, 76.9%). Occurred due to thrombosis and the size of the thrombus was more than 1 cm in 27 (69.2%) patients. A high percentage (25/39, 64.1%) of the patients had a suboptimal INR (less than 2). The major postoperative complications were respiratory failure (6/39, 15.4%) and dysrhythmias (20/39, 51.3%). The 30-day post operative mortality was 7.7% (3/39). Patients who underwent surgery after failed thrombolysis had significantly higher mortality than those who underwent direct surgery (p = 0.018).
Conclusion
Prosthetic valve thrombosis is primarily associated with suboptimal anticoagulant therapy and can occur years after valve replacement surgery. The prognosis for redo valve replacement is favorable .with a 30-day operative mortality rate of 7.7%. For patients with prosthetic valve thrombosis, Direct surgical intervention without prior fibrinolysis may be safe and effective for patients with prosthetic valve thrombosis .
Analysis of the efficacy of different obesity surgeries in patients with metabolic syndrome
Authors: Qi Tengfei , Ding yunfa , Dai Xiaojiang , He Jipei , Zhang Hongbin , Wu Liangping
Published: November 2024

Objectives
To investigate the effectiveness of different bariatric metabolic surgeries in improving metabolic syndrome indicators in patients.
Methods
A retrospective analysis was conducted on obese patients who underwent laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG), laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy + jejunojejunal bypass (LSG + JJB), and laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (LRYGB). Patients were categorized into groups based on their surgical procedure: LSG (N = 199), LSG + JJB (N = 242), and LRYGB (N = 288).
Results
Successful laparoscopic bariatric metabolic surgery was achieved in 729 patients. Indicators related to body mass, glucose metabolism, insulin resistance, lipid metabolism, and kidney function showed significant improvement compared to the preoperative period. and these changes were strongly correlated.
Conclusion
LSG, LSG + JJB, and LRYGB all demonstrate significant effectiveness in promoting weight loss and improving glycolipid metabolism in the short term. Post-surgery, symptoms of metabolic syndrome improved compared to the preoperative period, with LRYGB showing superior effectiveness over LSG + JJB and LSG. these improvements were also found to be strongly correlated.
RETRACTED: A prospective paired comparison trial of mirabegron and anticholinergics in patients with low bladder compliance
Authors: Son Hee Seo , Kim Jang Hwan
Published: November 2024

The authors have requested that this preprint be removed from Research Square.
Homology modeling and Structural docking analysis on a human BDNF gene by using Computational algorithms
Authors: Ramzan Kainat , Sabri Sabeen , Alshaya Dalal Sulaiman , Ramzan Saira , Khan Muhammad Saleem , Abbas Farhan , Attia Kotb A. , Murtaza Maryam
Published: November 2024

Brain-derived neurotrophic factor, a protein belonging to the neurotrophin family, interacts with receptors known as TrkB and p75NTR that are present in the nervous system. A BDNF gene is responsible for the plasticity of glutamate, and GABA synapses and also influences the differentiation of neurons and impacts serotonergic and dopaminergic neurotransmission. The present study executes comprehensive computational research on the BDNF protein, assessing structural and functional consequences by predicting its sequence analysis and structural modeling. The results found that BDNF is negatively charged, and non-polar with a hydrophilic and soluble GRAVY score of -0.456 and is generally unstable, based on its physiochemical attributes. The intricate network interactions highlight the role that signaling pathways play in cancer development. The prevalence of α-helices relative to β-type structures highlights significant structural characteristics associated with the functional BDNF elements. The selected protein was studied using in-silico tools for 3D structure prediction as a potential target for protein-ligand docking analysis. PyRx tool findings revealed that IND24, Congo red, Neoamphimedine, Amphimedine, Deoxyamphimedine, and Emetine had the highest docking scores and the most stable interactions with the protein model. Based on these findings, the selected protein emerges as a promising target for protein-ligand docking, a computational method for identifying potential drug molecules. Through protein-ligand docking, researchers aim to discover new therapeutic candidates that can modulate the function of the selected protein and potentially impact associated brain diseases.
A diagnostic nomogram model integrating the O-RADS and serum indexes for predicting malignancy in patients with ovarian masses
Authors: Gu Yifan , Zhao Lingling , Chen Weiwei , Yang Lei , Qian Cheng , Li Mengdan , Yang Yifei , Chen Xiaoyang , Yin Yifei
Published: November 2024

Background
To design a diagnostic nomogram model integrating the Ovarian-Adnexal Reporting and Data System (O-RADS) and serum indexes for predicting malignancy in patients with ovarian masses.
Methods
This was a retrospective study including 201 benign ovarian masses patients and 136 ovarian cancer (OC) patients from June 2011 to April 2022. Before surgical resection, all patients underwent transvaginal ultrasound, as well as transabdominal ultrasound examination, and tumour parameters according to O-RADS (morphology, internal echo, blood supply, etc.) were assessed. Meanwhile, serum indexes, including cancer antigen 125 (CA125) and neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio (NLR), were tested. After surgical resection, all patients were pathologically diagnosed. The differences in serological indexes and O-RADS scores between the benign and malignant groups were analysed using the Mann-Whitney U test. ROC curves were firstly used to determine their optimal cut-off values. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were used to identify CA125, NLR and O-RADS for OC. Then, the prediction nomogram model was established. A decision curve analysis (DCA) was performed to assess the clinical net benefit of the model. The calibration curve and the Hosmer–Lemeshow test were performed to assess the calibration and the goodness-of-fit of the nomogram model respectively.
Results
A total of 337 women [median age:45(32–57)] with 337 ovarian masses were included. Of the 337 ovarian masses, 201 were benign (benign group) and 136 were malignant (malignant group). CA125, NLR and O-RADS in the malignant group were significantly higher compared to the benign group. These parameters were then incorporated to develop a nomogram model, and this model showed an area under the ROC curve of 0.942 (95% confidence interval, 0.917–0.968), with 97.800% sensitivity and 76.600% specificity. The calibration curve showed a good fitting degree. Meanwhile, DCA provided a net benefit for a range of threshold probabilities.
Conclusions
This nomogram model yielded a favourable diagnostic accuracy for predicting malignancy in patients with ovarian masses.
Advanced Liver Fibrosis Impairs Cardiorespiratory Fitness in Patients with Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease
Authors: Sogbe Miguel , Hummer Breianna , Stine Jonathan G. , Lizaola-Mayo Blanca , Forman Daniel E. , Vargas Hugo E. , Duarte-Rojo Andres
Published: November 2024

Background
MASLD is a leading reason for liver transplant waitlisting. The relationship between cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) and liver fibrosis in patients with MASLD remains unclear. This study aims to provide further evidence supporting the relationship between liver fibrosis and CRF.
Methods
Subjects with MASLD across various fibrosis stages, including those with cirrhosis awaiting liver transplantation from three U.S. transplant centers, underwent cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPX). We compared participants based on fibrosis stage (F0-F1, F2-F3, and F4) and CPX parameters such as VO2peak, respiratory exchange ratio (RER), ventilatory efficiency (VE/VCO2), double product (DP) and chronotropic incompetence (CI). Multivariable models were then built to evaluate factors associated with these parameters.
Results
Sixty-one subjects underwent CPX testing across three centers. Subjects with F4 had lower VO2peak (11.8 mL/kg/min) compared to F0-F1 (22.2 mL/kg/min) and F2-F3 (22.9 mL/kg/min), p < 0.001. Subjects with F4 had higher RER (median 1.25) compared to F0-F1 (1.08) and F2-F3 (1.05), p = 0.001. Similarly, F4 subjects exhibited higher VE/VCO2 (median 36.5) compared to F0-F1 (31) and F2-F3 (30), p < 0.001. Additionally, F4 subjects had lower DP values (median 17,696) compared to F0-F1 (25,460) and F2-F3 (25,372), and higher prevalence of CI (90%) compared to F0-F1 (39%) and F2-F3 (25%), both p = < 0.001. Multivariable modeling confirmed advanced fibrosis (F > 3) as an independent predictor of low CRF.
Conclusions
In MASLD patients, advanced liver fibrosis, particularly cirrhosis, is associated with reduced CRF and poorer hemodynamic performance during CPX. Prioritizing exercise training for those in earlier stages (F3) may prevent fitness decline, which could hinder physical training and liver transplantation candidacy.
Quantifying natural amyloid plaque accumulation in the continuum of Alzheimer’s disease using ADNI
Authors: Elhefnawy Marwa E. , Patson Noel , Mouksassi Samer , Pillai Goonaseelan (Colin) , Shcherbinin Sergey , Chigutsa Emmanuel , Gueorguieva Ivelina
Published: November 2024

Introduction: Brain amyloid beta neuritic plaque accumulation is associated with an increased risk of progression to Alzheimer's disease (AD) [1]. Several studies estimate rates of change in amyloid plaque over time in clinically heterogeneous cohorts with different factors impacting amyloid plaque accumulation from ADNI and AIBL [2-4], but there are no reports using non-linear mixed effect model for amyloid plaque progression over time similar to that existing of disease-modifying biomarkers for other diseases [5, 6]. This study describes the natural progression of amyloid accumulation with population mean and between-participant variability for baseline and intrinsic progression rates quantified across the AD spectrum.
Method: 1340 ADNI participants were followed over a 10-year period with 18F-florbetapir PET scans used for amyloid plaque detection. Non-linear mixed effect with stepwise covariate modelling (scm) was used.
Results: Change in natural amyloid plaque levels over 10 year period followed an exponential growth model with an intrinsic rate of approx. 3 centiloid units/year. Age, gender, APOE4 genotype and disease stage were important factors on the baseline in the natural amyloid model. In APOE4 homozygous carriers mean baseline amyloid was increased compared to APOE4 non carriers.
Conclusions: These results demonstrate natural progression of amyloid plaque in the continuum of AD.
Prevalence and Determinants of the Pool Sign in Lung Cancer Patients with Brain Metastasis
Authors: Long Ying , Chen Zhao-ping , Wang Lin-hui , Liao Xue-qing , Guo Ming , Huang Zhong-qing
Published: November 2024

Purpose
The pool sign, an emerging biomarker for differentiating brain metastasis (BM) from primary neoplasm, has mainly been discussed in case reports. However, systematic research on its prevalence and influencing factors in lung cancer patients with BM is lacking. This study aims to evaluate the occurrence of the pool sign and identify factors influencing its presence.
Materials and methods
Between January 2017 and August 2024, data from 6,004 lung cancer patients were retrospectively extracted from the electronic health record system. The clinical and demographic characteristics of the patients, as well as imaging features of BMs, were obtained and subsequently compared between the pool sign group and the non-pool sign group using both univariate and multivariate statistical analyses.
Results
A total of 427 patients (81 women; mean age, 62.17 years) were enrolled in the study. The pool sign was observed in 29 patients (6.8%). The inter-reader reliability for the pool sign ranged from moderate to substantial (0.61–0.80), while the intra-reader reliability was 0.6. In the multivariate analysis, the findings demonstrated that an increase in tumor volume (OR = 1.035, 95% CI 1.008–1.063, P < 0.012) and the presence of a solid-cystic mass (OR = 6.49, 95% CI 1.377–30.597, P = 0.018) were significantly correlated with a higher probability of pool sign occurrence.
Conclusions
The incidence of the pool sign is 6.8%, and its occurrence is independently influenced by lesion volume and manifestations. The diagnostic value of this sign in the diagnosis and management of BM warrants further investigation.
Harnessing the Antibacterial Properties of Zambian-Grown Artemisia annua in the Fight Against Antimicrobial Resistance: An In vitro study
Authors: Ngwisha Joshua , Hang’ombe Bernard Mudenda , Choongo Kennedy , Nyirenda James , Mwenechanya Roy , Mwaanga Edwell , Samutela Mulemba Tilika , Kadango Zombe , Kabwali Emmanuel
Published: November 2024

Background: Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a global health crisis, leading to millions of deaths annually. The scarcity of new antibiotics has created an urgent need for alternative therapeutic agents from natural sources. Artemisia annua, a plant traditionally used in medicine, has demonstrated significant antibacterial properties. This study evaluates the efficacy of Artemisia annua extracts against various bacterial strains, including those resistant to conventional antibiotics, and analyses its phytochemical composition. The research focuses on Zambia, where limited access to antibiotics and reliance on traditional medicine heightens the need for locally accessible alternatives.Materials and Methods: Artemisia annua plants were collected from Choma District, Zambia, identified using morphological characteristics, and deposited as herbarium specimens. Plant materials were air-dried, coarsely powdered, and sequentially macerated at room temperature using hexane, hexane-ethyl acetate mixture, dichloromethane and ethanol. Antibacterial activity was tested against Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and other bacteria using disk diffusion and broth microdilution methods. The extract was qualitatively screened for phytochemicals.Results: The ethanol extract of A. annua exhibited significant antibacterial activity, particularly against S. aureus, E. coli, and P. aeruginosa. Disk diffusion and broth microdilution assays showed the extract’s inhibitory effects were comparable or superior to tetracycline (α = 0,05), particularly against resistant strains, linked to its bioactive compounds.Conclusion: This study suggests that A. annua holds potential as a natural antibacterial agent, especially in resource-limited human-environmental-wildlife-livestock interface settings like Zambia, where access to conventional antibiotics is limited. Its extract, rich in phenols and flavonoids, could be further developed for antimicrobial therapies in Zambia.
“I am carrying a baby whose father I do not know.” Experiences and context of girls pregnant from rape and sought sexual and reproductive health services
Authors: Mhango Patani , Mtende Medrina , Kangaude Godfrey , Mapemba Mphatso , Doherty Patricia , Sangala Wina , Kachale Fannie , Chipeta Effie
Published: November 2024

Introduction:
Access to safe abortion and post-abortion care plays a crucial role in promoting comprehensive sexual and reproductive health and rights. While abortion is legal in the majority of countries, there are often restrictive laws and criminal regulations that impede access, resulting in unsafe abortions. Unsafe abortions are especially prevalent among girls and women in developing countries. Even though Malawi has ratified the Maputo Protocol, which obligates states to provide abortion on several grounds, Malawi continues to restrict access, thereby presenting significant health, social and legal obstacles for women. The present study aims to delve into the experiences of pregnant girls and young women as they navigate sexual and reproductive health services within the confines of this legal framework.
Methodology:
This exploratory qualitative study aimed to understand the lived experiences of pregnant girls (aged 13–17 years) seeking sexual and reproductive health services within the restrictive legal context of Malawi. Semi-structured in-depth interviews, Key Informant Interviews, and focus group discussions were conducted with a diverse group of stakeholders, including girls who had experienced sexual assault, their parents or guardians, community leaders, healthcare providers, and policy-makers. Data collection took place in February and March 2023, with interviews conducted in the participant’s preferred language. Thematic content analysis was used to identify key themes and sub-themes from the qualitative data.
Results
The study included 36 participants: 14 girls aged 13–17 and 22 adults; including parents/guardians, healthcare workers, and different stakeholders at the community and policy level. Four main themes emerged from the data: experiences of pregnancy resulting from rape, ineffective legal recourse, reflections on the need for safe abortion services, and perspectives on the Termination of Pregnancy Bill. Young girls reported fear, embarrassment, and significant mental health challenges due to unintended pregnancies and lack of access to safe abortion. Parents and community members expressed disappointment with the judicial system and highlighted the physical and mental health risks associated with restrictive abortion laws. There was a strong demand for safe abortion services, especially in cases of rape and incest. However, awareness and knowledge about safe abortion services and the Termination of Pregnancy Bill were limited among community stakeholders.
Conclusion
The study emphasizes the urgent need for legal and policy reforms to improve access to safe abortion services in Malawi. The restrictive legal framework not only endangers the health and well-being of young girls and women but also perpetuates stigma and inequality.
Stochastic Optimization of a Multi-Carrier Energy System with the Participation of Renewable Energy Sources and Integrated Demand Response Programs
Authors: Babajani-Chari Mohammad amin , Ghasemi-Marzbali Ali
Published: November 2024

In contemporary engineering, devising an optimal plan for an energy hub-based microgrid, which incorporates renewable resources and meets both electrical and thermal demands, presents a substantial challenge. In this study, the stochastic optimization of a multi-carrier energy microgrid system with the presence of renewable energy sources is addressed. To control and optimally allocate costs and create a better profile for electrical and thermal loads, a demand response program is utilized. Given the uncertainty of renewable resources, scenario-based planning and reduction are proposed to address this issue. For realistic planning, this study models a 24-hour ahead scheduling, with objective functions based on energy purchase costs, fuel costs, profits from energy sales, and the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions. The proposed model and method are then applied to a sample system in a Python software environment using solvers. The results are analyzed under various scenarios, considering different parameters, including uncertainty and demand response programs. According to the obtained results, the total cost of meeting the electrical and thermal demand of consumers through the electricity and gas network is 279,910 cents, whereas the cost of meeting the same demand by the optimized system is 164,682 cents, achieving approximately 41% savings.
Associates of Neutrophil/lymphocyte Ratio in Patients with COVID 19 Infection: A Single Center Experience
Authors: Turan B. , Baysal E. , Ömür C. , Abdulrahman Y. , Çınar C. , Kocakaya D. , Yıldızeli S. Olgun , Eryüksel E. , Karakurt S. , Balcan Baran
Published: November 2024

Introduction
The ongoing outbreak of novel Coronavirus Disease-2019 (COVID-19) has critically worsened the lives of millions of people causing a major public health crisis globally. There are many factors that effects the morbidity and the mortality conditions among patients with COVID 19 infection.
Aims and objective
We addressed the determinants and of the factors associated with mortality of the patients with COVID 19 infection and the association of neutrophil lymphocyte ratio and the mortality.
Methods
163 participants with COVID 19 infection who were treated in the clinic and ICU were evaluated retrospectively
Results
163 participants 44.8 % women were evaluated retrospectively. Mean age of the patients was 55.8 ± 16.8. Mortality observed in 14.1 % of the participants. There were significant difference between the groups regarding the laboratory findings, hospitalization duration, comorbidity indexes and admission to ICU in deceased group when compared to survivors.
In the univariate logistic regression analysis there were significant associations between age (OR 0.9; CI 95 % 0.91 – 0.97), lymphocyte count (OR 1.01; CI 95 %, 1.00 – 1.01), neutrophil count (OR 1.00; CI 95 % 1.00 – 1.00), CRP (OR 0.98; CI 95 % 0.98 – 0.99), D dimer (OR 0.88; CI 95 % 0.78 – 0.99), ferritin (OR 0.99; CI 95 % 0.99 – 1.00), and neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio (OR; 0.89 CI 95 % 0.83 – 0.97). However, the significant association between neutrophil lymphocyte ratio was lost in the multivariate model
Conclusion.
Neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio is not associated with mortality in patients with COVID 19 infection
Validation and Reliability Assessment of the Croatian Version of the Individualized Care Subscale-B-Nurses: A Cross-Sectional Study in Home Healthcare
Authors: Cindrić Željka , Malnar Daniela
Published: November 2024

Background
Individualizing the provision of care is indispensable in nursing and clinical practice. There are no valid and reliable instruments for evaluating individualized care in Croatian healthcare.
Objectives
To translate and psychometrically assess the Individualized Care Subscale (ICS)-B-Nurses for Croatian healthcare.
Design:
Cross-sectional study.
Setting:
Data were collected within services of home healthcare between February 2021 and June 2021 in Croatia.
Participants:
This study included 132 nurses. All the respondents had direct contact with patients.
Methods
The ICS-B-Nurse subscale was translated into Croatian via a forward-backwards translation procedure. The construct validity was examined via a confirmatory factor analysis. The internal consistency was estimated via McDonald’s omega and Cronbach’s alpha methods, among other correlation measures.
Results
The ICS-B-Nurse was verified in the Croatian version through confirmatory factor analysis (factor loadings > 0.3; acceptable fit indices: SRMR ≈ 0.08, CFI ≈ 0.9, RMSEA ≈ 0.09). McDonald's omega exceeded 0.7 for the subsection and subscale, thus revealing adequate internal consistency.
Conclusion
The Croatian version of the ICS-B-Nurses has exhibited acceptable psychometric performance, supporting its use in the Croatian healthcare context.
Tax Neutrality and Corporate Risk-Taking: Evidence from the Reform of Uncredited Value-Added Tax Refund in China
Authors: Du Ya-Guang , He Ying
Published: November 2024

Our study investigates the association between tax neutrality and corporate risk-taking in China. Exploiting the new implementation of China’s value-added tax (VAT) reform to construct a difference-in-differences model, we find that increased tax neutrality is associated with higher corporate risk-taking. This finding arises because the refund of uncredited VAT provides the funding effects to promote total factor productivity (TFP) and R&D investment intensity, and the resultant improved TFP and R&D investment intensity enhance corporate risk-taking. Moreover, this association is more salient in firms with higher financing constraints, lower tax enforcement, and weak managerial self-interest incentives. Our results provide a novel implication that tax neutrality has a positive spillover effect on corporate risk-taking behaviors.
JEL codes: H21, G33
Lactococcus lactis subsp. cremoris C60 promotes immunoglobulin A production from B cells through functional modification of dendritic cells in intestinal environment
Authors: Saito Suguru , Okuno Alato , Kakizaki Nanae , Maekawa Toshio , Tsuji Noriko M
Published: November 2024

Probiotics utilizing lactic acid bacteria (LAB) have gained considerable attention in recent trends promoting self-managed health. Specifically, LAB-mediated immune modulation has been a key focus due to its potential to reduce the risk of pathogenic invasion and enhance host immunity. Immunoglobulin A (IgA) plays a crucial role in innate defense against various pathogens. Although only a limited number of probiotic LAB strains have been shown to increase IgA production, this capability remains of great interest. Here, we report a new strain, Lactococcus lactis subsp. cremoris C60 (C60), which promotes IgA production through functional modulation of intestinal B cells and dendritic cells (DCs). Heat-killed (HK)-C60 increased both pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokine productions in DCs via the Toll-like receptor (TLR)- Myeloid differentiation primary response 88 (MyD88) signaling pathway, as demonstrated in both a physiological mouse model and in vitro cultures using bone marrow-derived dendritic cells (BMDCs). Notably, intragastric administration of HK-C60 significantly increased systemic IgA production, which was associated with the functional modification of B cells in the Peyer’s patches (PPs) of the small intestine. Immunophenotyping of PP cells from HK-C60-administered mice revealed both an expansion and functional upregulation of B cells. Mechanistically, we identified that DC-derived interleukin-6 (IL-6) and IL-10 play essential roles in the C60-mediated increase in IgA production by B cells. Finally, we evaluated the effect of C60 on IgA production using human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs). Consistent with our findings in the mouse model, PBMCs produced IgA upon HK-C60 stimulation in an IL-6- and IL-10-dependent manner. Our results suggest that C60 is a novel probiotic strain capable of promoting intestinal immune homeostasis by upregulating IgA production, underscoring its potential for probiotic applications focused on immune conditioning.
Effects of Tree Spacing and Branch Configuration on Production, Fruit Quality, and Leaf Minerals of ‘Aztec Fuji’ Apple Trees in a Tatura Trellis System Over 5 Years
Authors: Fallahi Esmaeil , Kiester Michael J. , Fallahi Bahar , Cheng Lailiang
Published: November 2024

Tree spacing and branch architecture are critical for the productivity of high-density orchards. The influence of two tree spacings of 45.7 cm × 366 cm and 91.4 cm × 366 cm each with two branch architectures or configurations of shortened branch (ShBr) or overlapped branch (OverBr) on tree growth, yield components, fruit quality, and leaf mineral nutrients in an ‘Aztec Fuji’ apple (Malus domestica Borkh.) orchard with a 60-degree Tatura trellis (V) system was studied over 5 years. Trees planted with 91.4-cm spacing had a significantly greater trunk cross-sectional area (TCSA), higher number of fruit and greater yield per tree, and greater cumulative yield efficiency than those of trees planted with 45.7-cm spacing during 2012–16. Tree spacing did not significantly affect fruit weight and firmness at harvest or after storage. However, trees planted with 91.4-cm spacing always had higher fruit color, sunburn, fruit russet, and watercore at harvest and a higher soluble solids concentration but lower fruit bitter pit at harvest and after storage compared to those of trees with 45.7-cm spacing. These differences were often significant. Trees with 45.7-cm spacing had significantly higher leaf concentrations of potassium, iron, copper, and manganese and relatively higher leaf zinc than those of trees with 91.4-cm spacing. Trees trained according to ShBr architectures had a relatively larger TCSA than those of trees with an OverBr configuration every year. Branching architectures did not affect the number of fruits per tree, yield per tree, yield per hectare, yield efficiency, or biennial bearing index in any year. Trees with a ShBr architecture had significantly larger fruits than those with an OverBr system every year and over the 5 years. Trees with a ShBr architecture had higher average leaf fresh and dry weights and calcium concentration but a similar percentage of dry weight compared to those of trees with an OverBr architecture.
Multipartite edge modes and tensor networks
Authors: Akers Chris , Soni Ronak M. , Wei Annie Y.
Published: November 2024

Holographic tensor networks model AdS/CFT, but so far they have been limited by involving only systems that are very different from gravity. Unfortunately, we cannot straightforwardly discretize gravity to incorporate it, because that would break diffeomorphism invariance. In this note, we explore a resolution. In low dimensions gravity can be written as a topological gauge theory, which can be discretized without breaking gauge-invariance. However, new problems arise. Foremost, we now need a qualitatively new kind of “area operator,” which has no relation to the number of links along the cut and is instead topological. Secondly, the inclusion of matter becomes trickier. We successfully construct a tensor network both including matter and with this new type of area. Notably, while this area is still related to the entanglement in “edge mode” degrees of freedom, the edge modes are no longer bipartite entangled pairs. Instead they are highly multipartite. Along the way, we calculate the entropy of novel subalgebras in a particular topological gauge theory. We also show that the multipartite nature of the edge modes gives rise to non-commuting area operators, a property that other tensor networks do not exhibit.
Human capital, creativity and innovation as pillars of leading technology systems
Authors: Petrova Iryna , Pereira Fernando
Published: November 2024

The relevance of the research is determined by the need of modern agricultural enterprises for innovations. Only on the basis of innovative development they can be competitive and later enter industry 4. The purpose of the article is to analyze and justify an innovative approach to the formation of technological networks in the agricultural sector based on the use of competitive advantages of human capital and strengthening of its creativity. The authors note that in order to attract innovation, project managers must coordinate the company's strategy with the strategy of knowledge management and creativity development. The study summarizes the results of using an innovative model in the Brazilian agricultural sector that promotes human capital development and knowledge generation, as well as environmental sustainability (the UTAUT model). The evaluation of these results showed that a significant factor in the successful implementation of the innovation model is the creation of an appropriate organizational and management culture, focused on the involvement of innovations in the activities of agricultural enterprises. The authors conducted a survey of agricultural workers of large and small enterprises of this industry in order to identify their need and degree of readiness for innovations. The results of the survey showed significant differences between large and small enterprises in the given parameters, which require the choice of different ways and sources of strengthening their innovativeness. The problem raised in the article is also relevant for Ukraine as a country with a traditional agricultural sector.