bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Efficacy and safety of bulevirtide in chronic hepatitis D – real life experience in Saint Petersburg
Authors:   S.M.Kirov Military Medical Academy of the Ministry of Defence, Saint Petersburg, Russian Federation, Zhdanov K.V. , Gusev D.А. ,   S.P.Botkin Clinical Infectious Diseases Hospital, Saint Petersburg, Russian Federation, Romanova S.Y. ,   Center for prevention and control of AIDS and Infectious Diseases, Saint Petersburg, Russian Federation, Vinogradova T.N. ,   Center for prevention and control of AIDS and Infectious Diseases, Saint Petersburg, Russian Federation, Tyurenkova N.V. ,   S.P.Botkin Clinical Infectious Diseases Hospital, Saint Petersburg, Russian Federation
Published: March 2024

Objective. To study the efficacy and safety of bulevirtide, the HBV and HDV entry inhibitor in patients with chronic hepatitis D, including compensated cirrhosis, in real practice. Materials and methods. Analysis of the interim 24-week results of bulevirtide therapy (monotherapy and combination with peginterferon) in 24 patients including patients with HIV co-infection. Results. After 24 weeks of treatment, the virological response rate was 75%, including patients on monotherapy (63%) and combination therapy (100%). The levels of HDV RNA declined by -2.9, -2.6 and -4.3 log10 copies/ml from initial, respectively. In 7 patients the level of HDV RNA was undetectable (3 patients on monotherapy, 4 patients on combination therapy). All patients had normal ALT. The effectiveness of treatment (virologic and biochemical response) increased with a longer treatment period, from 12 to 24 weeks. Treatment was well tolerated with no serious, severe or moderate adverse events reported. The discontinuation of treatment was observed in only one case, despite the achievement of a virological response, in an 80-year-old patient with cirrhosis, due to a deterioration in liver function, probably due to the progressive course of the disease. Conclusion. The interim real practice results demonstrated high efficacy and good tolerability of bulevirtide in patients with CHD (chronic hepatitis D), including compensated cirrhosis, and patients with HIV co-infection. Bulevirtide is recommended as the treatment of choice for CHD (as monotherapy or combination therapy with peginterferon). Key words: bulevirtide, chronic hepatitis D, combination therapy, HIV co-infection, monotherapy, peginterferon, real practice
Osmanlı Devleti’nin 1863-1879 Kolera Pandemisinde Salgınla Mücadelesi ve Aldığı Tedbirler
Authors: Alıcı Abdulvahap , Güler Yunus
Published: March 2024

Bulaşıcı hastalıklar on dokuzuncu yüzyılda ulaşım imkânlarının hızla artmasıyla endemik olmaktan çıkmış ve epidemik hâle gelmiştir. Bu hastalıklardan biri olan kolera Hindistan’dan dünyaya yayılmıştır. Osmanlı Devleti’ne ulaşan ve aralıklarla tekrar eden bu hastalığın yayılmasını engellemek için başta deniz yolları olmak üzere karayolları ve demiryollarında önlemler alınmıştır. Deniz güzergâhlarının başında Kızıl Deniz ve Süveyş Kanalı gelmektedir. Hacıların sıklıkla kullandığı bu rotada hastalığın engellenmesi için çeşitli önlemler alınmıştır. Zira hastalık buradan deniz yoluyla Avrupa’ya, kara yoluyla Halep, Bağdat gibi büyük şehirlere ulaşmıştır. Özellikle deniz yoluyla hacı taşımacılığı salgının rotasını doğu-batı yönünden güney-kuzey yönüne değiştirmiştir. Bu çalışmada, Osmanlı Devleti’nin 1865 kolera salgını temel olmak üzere kolera salgınlarının önüne geçmek için yaptığı düzenleme ve uygulamalar ele alınmıştır. Mısır, Halep ve Bağdat merkez alınarak salgının başlangıç, yayılım ve bitiş süreçlerinin değişimi incelenmiştir. Bu amaçla basılı eserler, Osmanlı ve Fransız arşiv belgeleri ile seyahatnamelerden faydalanılmıştır.
Anahtar kelimeler: 1865 Kolera Salgını, Osmanlı Devleti, Halep, Bağdat, Fransa, İngiltere, Mısır, Hicaz.
Analisis Komparatif Model Dialektika Pos-Islamisme di Dunia Islam antara Arab Saudi dan Iran
Authors: Muhaimin Ramdhan , Umar Nizar , Amaliyah Firda
Published: March 2024

This study aims to analyze the relationship between Islam and the state in Saudi Arabia and Iran, using the approach of post-Islamism. Post-Islamism is a concept that refers to the shift of Islamist groups towards modernity and democracy. It was first introduced by Iranian intellectual, Asef Bayat, in the 1990s. Since then, it has been used to analyze the phenomenon of political Islam in different countries, especially after the Cold War. In Saudi Arabia, changes have occurred since Mohammed bin Salman was appointed as crown prince in 2016. In Iran, civil society actions, such as the 2022 death of Mahsa Amini, have driven the change. The research problem is to compare the post-Islamism model that occurs in Saudi Arabia and Iran. The comparative case study method with library research techniques was used. The research findings show that the pattern of post-Islamism in Saudi Arabia differs from that of Iran. In Saudi Arabia, post-Islamism is top-down, starting from state politics without civic movement. However, Iran illustrates the opposite - it is bottom-up and initiated by civil society against the state.
Bunga Rampai Ketahanan Pangan Lokal Melalui Rekayasa Teknologi Budidaya Tanaman dan Pengolahan Pangan
Authors:   Universitas Muhamdiyah Sidoarjo, Sutarman Sutarman , Saidi Ida Agustini
Published: March 2024

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Representation of prime numbers on the complex plane
Authors: Csóka Levente
Published: March 2024

This study proposes a novel representation of prime numbers implying a quasiperiodic pattern. Based on the result that any real number, and conse-quently, a prime number, can be represented in a complex plane using Euler’s notation; we investigated the quantities characterizing the sum of centers, which were observed as prime numbers. The numerical results indicate that prime numbers can be generated by rooting the real numbers, and their progression can be decomposed into periodic sequences. The primary approach involved the implementation of these methods to extract the hidden periodicity in quasi-periodic prime arithmetic progression, which was arranged in a parabolic spiral exhibiting the harmonic pattern.
Disseminated mucormycosis in an apparently immunocompetent adult- a case report and systematic review of literature
Authors: Sengupta Abhinav , Sarda Radhika , Singh Gagandeep , Soneja Manish
Published: March 2024

Purpose
Mucormycosis is an emerging infectious disease, but still under-recognized, with significant delays in diagnosis and costly treatment. With increasing prevalence in resource-limited settings, it can have devastating consequences.
Methods
We report a case of disseminated mucormycosis in a patient with no risk factors, with a systematic literature review of disseminated mucormycosis in apparently immunocompetent patients.
Result
We present the case of a 54-year-old woman from rural India with no prior medical history, who presented with intermittent fever, chronic cough with blood-streaked sputum, and new onset right-sided hemiparesis. Imaging revealed multiple non-cavitary and cavitary lung lesions, and abscesses in the spleen, kidneys, and brain, leading to a suspicion of infective endocarditis or disseminated tuberculosis. Biopsy revealed the presence of aseptate hyphae, and a trehalose peak on MRS further established the diagnosis of disseminated mucormycosis. Aggressive treatment with amphotericin B deoxycholate and posaconazole was initiated, leading to clinical improvement.
Conclusion
This case emphasizes the importance of considering disseminated mucormycosis in patients with atypical presentations and highlights the need for prompt diagnosis and multidisciplinary management to improve patient outcomes.
A modular platform to generate functional sympathetic neuron-innervated heart assembloids
Authors: Zeltner Nadja , Wu Hsueh-Fu , Saito-Diaz Kenyi , Sun Xin , Song Ming , Saini Tripti , Grant Courtney , James Christina , Thomas Kimata , Abate Yohannes , Howerth Elizabeth , Kner Peter , Xu Bingqian
Published: March 2024

The technology of human pluripotent stem cell (hPSC)-based 3D organoid/assembloid cultures has become a powerful tool for the study of human embryonic development, disease modeling and drug discovery in recent years. The autonomic sympathetic nervous system innervates and regulates almost all organs in the body, including the heart. Yet, most reported organoids to date are not innervated, thus lacking proper neural regulation, and hindering reciprocal tissue maturation. Here, we developed a simple and versatile sympathetic neuron (symN)-innervated cardiac assembloid without the need for bioengineering. Our human sympathetic cardiac assembloids (hSCAs) showed mature muscle structures, atrial to ventricular patterning, and spontaneous beating. hSCA-innervating symNs displayed neurotransmitter synthesis and functional regulation of the cardiac beating rate, which could be manipulated pharmacologically or optogenetically. We modeled symN-mediated cardiac development and myocardial infarction. This hSCAs provides a tool for future neurocardiotoxicity screening approaches and is highly versatile and modular, where the types of neuron (symN or parasympathetic or sensory neuron) and organoid (heart, lung, kidney) to be innervated may be interchanged.
Postoperative abdominopelvic adhesion and umbilical wound validation after single-port laparoscopy or two-port laparoscopy for gynecological surgery: A comparison with conventional laparoscopy
Authors: Yi Sang Wook
Published: March 2024

Purpose
The emergence of minimally invasive surgery has led to the development of laparoscopic surgery to reduce the number of ports. Although the incision for the umbilical port is sufficiently large, thus reducing the number of ports used during laparoscopic surgery, postoperative complications involving incisions at port sites have been reported. Thus, we analyzed postoperative intraperitoneal outcomes after laparoscopy using operation records and photographs of consecutive surgeries.
Methods
A total of 134 patients were enrolled in the clinical study to analyze their intraperitoneal outcomes. The patients were divided into groups, which were compared and analyzed based on the number of ports used intraoperatively. The clinical characteristics of the patients were obtained from their medical records, and their operation records, including those of their consecutive operations, were analyzed.
Results
Patients who underwent single-port laparoscopy were included in Group 1, patients who underwent two-port laparoscopy were included in Group 2, and patients who underwent three-port laparoscopy or four-port laparoscopy were included in Group 3. Correlation analysis of the number of ports used during surgery revealed that the white blood cell count before and after surgery and the intraperitoneal umbilical adhesion score were negatively correlated. The incidence of intraperitoneal umbilical adhesions increased as the number of ports used during laparoscopy decreased.
Conclusions
Because the incidence of postoperative intraperitoneal umbilical adhesion increases as the size of the umbilical wound increases, such as after single-port laparoscopy, surgical umbilical wounds should be cautiously repaired after single-port laparoscopic surgery.
Continuous Mapping of Forest Canopy Height using ICESat-2 Data and a Weighted Kernel Integration of Multi-Temporal Multi-Source Remote Sensing Data aided by Google Earth Engine
Authors: Mansouri Jalal , Jafari Mohsen , Dehkordi Alireza Taheri
Published: March 2024

Forest Canopy Height (FCH) is a crucial parameter that offers valuable insights into forest structure. Spaceborne LiDAR missions provide accurate FCH measurements, but a major challenge is their point-based measurements lacking spatial continuity. This study integrated ICESat-2's ATL08-derived FCH values with multi-temporal and multi-source Remote Sensing (RS) datasets to generate continuous FCH maps for northern forests in Iran. Sentinel-1/2, ALOS-2 PALSAR-2, and FABDEM datasets were prepared in Google Earth Engine (GEE) for FCH mapping, each possessing unique spatial and geometrical characteristics that differ from those of the ATL08 product. Given the importance of accurately representing the geometrical characteristics of the ATL08 segments in modeling FCH, a novel Weighted Kernel (WK) approach was proposed in this paper. The WK approach could better represent the RS datasets within the ATL08 ground segments compared to other commonly used resampling approaches. The correlation between all RS data features improved by approximately 6% compared to previously employed approaches, indicating that the RS data features derived after convolving the WK approach are more predictive of FCH values. Furthermore, the WK approach demonstrated superior performance among machine learning models, with Random Forests outperforming other models, achieving an R2 of 0.71, RMSE of 4.92 m, and MAPE of 29.95%. Furthermore, in contrast to previous studies using only summer datasets, this study included spring and autumn data from S1/2, resulting in a 6% increase in R2 and a 0.5 m decrease in RMSE. The proposed methodology succeeded in filling the research gaps and improved the accuracy of FCH estimations.
Criteria for oscillation of noncanonical superlinear half-linear dynamic equations
Authors: Hassan Taher S. , Cesarano Clemente , Mesmouli Mouataz Billah , Madani Y. A. , Menaem Amir Abdel , Glalah Belal A. , Tchalla Ayékotan M. J.
Published: March 2024

This article comes up with criteria to make sure that the solutions to superlinear, half-linear, and noncanonical dynamic equations oscillate in both advanced and delayed cases; these criteria are comparable to the Hille-type and Ohriska-type criteria for the canonical nonlinear dynamic equations; and also these results solve an open problem in many existing works in the literature on dynamic equations. To demonstrate the importance of the results, some examples have been introduced.
A recent history of disease outbreaks in Kenya, 2007-2022: Findings from routine surveillance data
Authors: Geteri Farida , Dawa Jeanette , Gachohi John , Kadivane Samuel , Okunga Emmanuel
Published: March 2024

Background
Africa reports the highest number of outbreaks in the world, accounting for 39% of all outbreaks in 2022. The Integrated Disease Surveillance and Response strategy in Kenya ensures the reporting of outbreaks at the national level. We present a summary of the burden of reported disease outbreaks in Kenya, 2007–2022.
Methods
We reviewed historical surveillance data, 2007–2022. We summarized the annual caseload and deaths of the reported outbreaks per county. We classified the outbreaks into 3 categories i.e., high, moderate, and low burden. We conducted the Mann-Kendall test to detect trends in the number of outbreaks and counties reporting over time.
Results
Twenty-three outbreaks were reported. COVID-19, cholera, epidemic malaria, leishmaniasis, and measles were associated with high disease burden. The highest number of outbreaks reported in a single year was 10. Garissa, Nairobi, Nakuru, Wajir, Mandera, and Mombasa, had the majority of the outbreaks and caseload.
Conclusion
There was an increase in the frequency and magnitude of outbreaks. This highlights the complex public health landscape and the vulnerability of the country to epidemics. The differences in outbreak occurrence among counties necessitate targeted and enhanced preventive, preparedness, and response interventions at the sub-national level to reduce the burden of outbreaks.
The Influence of Chinese Typography on information dissemination in Graphic Design: Based on Eye-tracking Data
Authors: Chen Weilong , Yang Jiqiang , Wang Yiluo
Published: March 2024

The arrangement of Chinese characters has a significant impact on the visual effect and information dissemination in graphic design. In traditional Chinese layout, vertical arrangement of characters is predominant, but in recent times, there has been a gradual transition towards horizontal arrangement. To compare the influence of different character arrangement forms on visual meaning generation and information dissemination,This study employed an eye-tracking experiment to investigate two common Chinese character layouts in posters–horizontal and vertical, and collected data such as eye-tracking heatmap, pupil diameter and eye-tracking trajectory map. Based on objective eye-tracking data, combined with post-test interviews and questionnaire surveys, it was found that vertical character arrangement in Chinese typography is more effective in attracting visual attention and facilitating the expression and stimulating interest in viewing/reading under the premise of meeting formal requirements, which may provide guidance and inspiration for the practical application of Chinese characters in layout design, advertising design, packaging design, exhibition design, UI design, and other related fields.
Clinical Features of Noncompaction Cardiomyopathy Across All Age Strata
Authors: Zhou Ziqin , Qiu Min , Li Ying , Tian Miao , Tu Jiazichao , Han Linjiang , Zhang Ruyue , Zhou Shuheng , Li Xinming , Wen Shusheng , Chen Jimei
Published: March 2024

Background
Noncompaction cardiomyopathy (NCM) stands as a rare hereditary cardiac disorder intricately linked to adverse cardiovascular events, including heart failure, arrhythmia, and sudden cardiac death. Presently, the clinical features of NCM lack substantial support from extensive samples spanning diverse age groups. This study endeavors to systematically elucidate the clinical characteristics of NCM patients across various age demographics.
Methods
We retrospectively analyzed 415 patients diagnosed with NCM treated at the Guangdong Institute of Cardiovascular Disease between January 2013 and January 2023. Comprehensive datasets, encompassing clinical information, arrhythmia characteristics, as well as echocardiography and cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (CMR) data, were meticulously collected for detailed investigation and analysis.
Results
We stratified a cohort of 415 patients into distinct age groups: 0–1 years old (169 patients), 1–18 years old (149 patients), and > 18 years old (97 patients). Heart failure emerged as the predominant symptom across the entire population, affecting 112 (27%) patients. Specifically, heart failure constituted the prevailing clinical manifestation in patients aged > 18 years (53 patients, 54.6%), while murmur was the most observed symptom in patients aged 0–1 years and 1–18 years (33 patients, 19.5%, and 26 patients, 17.4%, respectively). In all age groups, when compared to NCM patients devoid of valvular disease, those with mitral regurgitation (MR) exhibited significantly reduced left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) and left ventricular fractional shortening (FS) (p < 0.05). Additionally, left ventricular end-diastolic diameter (LVESD) and left ventricular end-systolic diameter (LVEDD) were significantly increased in NCM patients with MR (p < 0.05). Furthermore, there was a significant correlation between LVESD diameter and LVEDD diameter with MR area in NCM patients (p < 0.05).
Conclusion
Across all age strata, individuals with NCM and concomitant MR consistently manifested left ventricular (LV) dilatation and LV systolic function impairment. There were significant differences in clinical symptoms, arrhythmia, CHD and valvular heart disease among distinct age groups. Recognizing the paramount significance of age-related clinical characteristics is imperative for accurate diagnosis, effective treatment, and robust research initiatives concerning NCM patients.
Real-world outcomes in patients with Philadelphia chromosome-positive acute lymphoblastic leukemia or chronic myeloid leukemia treated with ponatinib – Final 6-year results from a Belgian registry
Authors: Devos Timothy , Deeren Dries , Theunissen Koen , Selleslag Dominik , Bailly Benjamin , Havelange Violaine , Lewalle Philippe , Meers Stef , Benghiat Fleur Samantha , Gadisseur Alain , Granacher Nikki , Eygen Koen Van , Vanstraelen Gaëtan , Vellemans Hélène , De Becker Ann , Janssen Mia , Vrelust Inge , Lejeune Marie , de Velde Ann Van , Triffet Agnès , Beck Michael , Sebti Hinde , Mazure Dominiek
Published: March 2024

Ponatinib is a third-generation tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI) for treatment of chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) and Philadelphia chromosome-positive (Ph+) acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) in patients who fail or are intolerant to a second-generation TKI or who carry the T315I mutation. This is the final analysis of the Belgian ponatinib registry evaluating use of ponatinib in clinical practice, with data available for up to 6 years after reimbursement. Forty-eight percent of 54 CML and 28% of 29 Ph + ALL patients had received ≥ 3 previous TKIs. Before ponatinib, most patients had already achieved a response, including at least a major molecular response (MMR), in 19% of CML and 17% of Ph + ALL patients. Ponatinib was initiated due to intolerance to previous TKIs in 50% of CML and 41% of Ph + ALL patients. Median follow-up was 545 and 258 days for CML and Ph + ALL patients, respectively. Best response to ponatinib was at least an MMR in 65% of CML and 55% of Ph + ALL patients. Overall and progression-free survival were 85.8% and 83.8% in CML patients after 48 months of treatment, and 82.5% and 54.2% in Ph + ALL patients after 30 months of treatment. Adverse reactions were reported by 85% of CML and 76% of Ph + ALL patients, with 33% of CML and 24% of Ph + ALL patients experiencing cardiovascular events. In line with previously published trials, these real-world data support use of ponatinib in CML and Ph + ALL patients with resistance or intolerance to previous TKIs or carrying the T315I mutation. Clinicaltrials.gov identifier: NCT03678454; September 19, 2018
A Novel Levy Walk-based Framework for Scheduling Power-intensive Mobile Edge Computing Tasks
Authors: Younesi Abolfazl , Fazli Mohammad Amin , Ejlali Alireza
Published: March 2024

Mobile edge computing (MEC) enables computationally intensive tasks to be processed at the network edge to provide low-latency services. However, inefficient task scheduling can negatively impact performance metrics like completion time and energy consumption. This paper proposes CAPL-MEC, an adaptive task scheduling framework that utilizes Levy walk modeling to address mobility patterns in MEC. The system model generates random edge nodes within defined bounds to simulate heterogeneous environments. A power consumption model is also presented to optimize dynamic and static power. Device mobility follows an adaptive Levy walk distribution where the power law exponent is time-varying. Latency and reliability (task replication) models are also defined. The CAPL-MEC algorithm utilizes an adaptive Levy walk approach to predict device locations and schedule tasks accordingly. A hybrid task allocation strategy combines proximity awareness, mobile-centric execution, and handovers between mobile and edge devices. Simulations evaluate CAPL-MEC across met-rics like completion time, energy consumption, CPU and memory utilization, and wait times under various configurations. Results demonstrate that CAPL-MEC outperforms other algorithms by minimizing completion time through efficient resource allocation based on predicted mobility patterns. Energy consumption is also reduced through power-conscious scheduling. Overall, the framework presents an effective and adaptable solution for task scheduling in dynamic MEC environments.
In-vitro Assessment of PHELA and its Components in Modulating the Innate Immune Response against SARS-CoV-2
Authors: Litabe Matefo Millicent , Matsabisa Motlalepula , Burt Felicity Jane
Published: March 2024

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARS-CoV) 2 induces severe illness, often characterized by an excessive release of proinflammatory cytokines, leading to a cytokine storm associated with disease severity. Traditional medicinal plants have been proposed as promising, cost-effective treatments for SARS-CoV-2. PHELA, a traditional medicine prepared from the extracts of four South African plants, has been proposed for use as an immune booster. This study evaluates the ability of PHELA and its constituents to regulate cytokine release and influence viral replication in SARS-CoV-2 Omicron-infected mammalian cells. Cells were treated with plant extracts before or after viral infection, measuring cytokine levels (IL-1β, IL-2Rα, IL-6, TNF-α, IFN-γ) and viral load at various intervals. No significant difference in viral load was observed between infected cells treated with plant extracts and untreated infected cells. However, PHELA-treated cells showed a delay in viral load increase. Infected cells treated with PHELA exhibited significantly lower levels of IL-1β, IL-2Rα, and TNF-α compared to untreated infected cells at 48 and 72 hours post-infection. Post-treatment was more effective in reducing proinflammatory cytokine production than pre-treatment, highlighting the potential of PHELA and its constituents in modulating cytokine responses during SARS-CoV-2 infection.
Exploring the Relationship between Gut Microbiota and Breast Cancer Risk in European and East Asian Populations Using Mendelian Randomization
Authors: Lin Wei , Gu Chenghao , Chen Zheyin , Xue Shihang , Zeng Liuhai , Wu Haiyan
Published: March 2024

Background: Several studies have explored the potential link between gut microbiota and breast cancer; nevertheless, the causal relationship between gut microbiota and breast cancer remains unclear. This study investigated the causal relationship between gut microbiota and breast cancer in European and East Asian populations using a Mendelian Randomization (MR) analysis approach.
Methods: We utilized summary statistics from genome-wide association studies (GWAS) of the gut microbiome from the MiBioGen project with summary data from GWAS on breast cancer from the FinnGen consortium and the IEU database. Preliminary statistical analyses were conducted using inverse variance weighting, supplemented by various sensitivity analysis methods, including MR-Egger regression, weighted median, weighted mode, simple median, and simple mode, to ensure the robustness of our findings. Heterogeneity and pleiotropy were assessed to avoid misleading conclusions caused by unconsidered confounders or non-specific effects of genetic variants, ensuring that the results reflect a genuine causal relationship.
Results: In European populations, four types of gut microbiota were associated with breast cancer. The genus Erysipelatoclostridium was positively associated with the risk of breast cancer, with an odds ratio (OR) of 1.21 (95% confidence interval [CI] 1.083–1.358), false discovery rate (FDR) = 0.0039. The class Coriobacteriia, order Coriobacteriales, and family Coriobacteriaceae, which belong to the same phylogenetic system, showed a consistent negative association with breast cancer risk, with an OR of 0.757 (95% CI 0.616–0.930), FDR = 0.0281. In East Asian populations, three types of gut microbiota were related to breast cancer. The Eubacterium ruminantium group was positively associated with breast cancer risk, with an OR of 1.259 (95% CI 1.056–1.499), FDR = 0.0497. The families Porphyromonadaceae and Ruminococcaceae were negatively associated with breast cancer risk, with ORs of 0.304 (95% CI 0.155–0.596), FDR = 0.0005, and 0.674 (95% CI 0.508–0.895), FDR = 0.03173, respectively. However, these two taxa had limited instrumental variables, restricting the statistical power and potentially affecting the interpretation of the results.
Conclusion: A causal link between specific gut microbiota and breast cancer exists. This finding enhances our understanding of the relationship between the gut microbiome and breast cancer and offers potential directions for developing prevention and treatment methods.
Detecting and Classifying Myocardial Infarction in Echocardiogram Frames with an Enhanced CNN Algorithm and ECV-3D Network
Authors: S Deepika , N Jaisankar
Published: March 2024

Myocardial infarction is a serious medical condition that requires prompt and accurate diagnosis for effective treatment. In this paper, we present a novel approach for detecting and classifying MI in echocardiogram frames using an enhanced CNN algorithm and ECV-3D network. The proposed method aims to improve the accuracy and efficiency of MI diagnosis by leveraging advanced deep learning techniques. Through extensive experimentation, we demonstrate the effectiveness of our approach in achieving high accuracy and robustness in MI detection and classification. The results indicate the potential of our method to aid in the early and precise diagnosis of MI, thereby contributing to improved patient outcomes and clinical decision-making. After conducting thorough experimentation, our proposed approach has achieved an impressive accuracy of 97.05% in the detection and classification of myocardial infarction in echocardiogram frames. This accomplishment showcases the robustness and reliability of our method, indicating its potential to significantly impact the accurate diagnosis of MI and subsequently improve patient outcomes. Furthermore, the area under the curve attained by our model is 0.82%, reaffirming the efficacy of the enhanced CNN algorithm and ECV-3D network in accurately detecting and classifying MI.It is noteworthy that all the parameters utilized in our approach have demonstrated a high level of accuracy, emphasizing the effectiveness of our deep learning techniques in enhancing the diagnostic process for MI. Moreover, the proposed method is capable of efficiently processing large volumes of echocardiogram frames, making it suitable for real-time clinical applications.
Genetic diversification of allohexaploid Brassica hybrids (AABBCC) using a fertile octoploid with excessive C genome set (AABBCCCC)
Authors: Shinke Teppei , Yamazaki Akira , Nakamura Soraha , Kudo Hiroshi , Hosokawa Munetaka
Published: March 2024

Even when somatic hybrids are produced, the plants that are produced are rarely in themselves an innovative crop. In this study, we used somatic hybrids of Brassica juncea (AABB) and B. oleracea (CC) as model cases for the genetic diversification of the somatic hybrids. One cell of ‘Takana’ (B. juncea) and two cells of ‘Snow Crown’ (B. oleracea) were fused to create several somatic hybrids with excessive C genomes, AABBCCCC. Using AABBCCCC somatic hybrids as mother plants and crossing with ‘Takana’, the AABBCC progenies were generated. When these AABBCC plants were self-fertilized, and flow cytometric analysis was performed on the next generations, differences in the relative amount of genome size variation were observed, depending on the different AABBCCCC parents used for AABBCC creation. Further self-progeny was obtained for AABBCC plants with a theoretical allohexaploid DNA index by FCM. However, as the DNA indices of the progeny populations varied between plants used and aneuploid individuals still occurred in the progeny populations, it was difficult to say that the allohexaploid genome was fully stabilized. Next, to obtain genetic diversification of the allohexaploid, different cultivars of B. juncea were crossed with AABBCCCC, resulting in diverse AABBCC plants. Genetic diversity can be further expanded by crossbreeding plants with different AABBCC genome sets. Although genetic stability is necessary to ensure in the later generations, the results obtained in this study show that the use of somatic hybrids with excess genomes is an effective strategy for creating innovative crops.
Evaluating and Refining Public Health Emergency Policies in Vocational Colleges: A Study Based on Text Mining and PMC Model
Authors: Sun Bing
Published: March 2024

bjective: To provide a theoretical and decision-making foundation for the development of public health emergency policies in vocational colleges, essential for navigating unforeseen health crises.
Methods: Employing text mining tools, such as KH Coder, and the Policy Modeling Consistency (PMC) Model, this study performs an empirical analysis of policies from 32 vocational colleges.
Results: The findings indicate a mean PMC index of 0.42, which suggests a moderate level of policy effectiveness with substantial potential for enhancement.
Conclusion: The paper recommends establishing regional historical public health event databases, developing resource reserve models, implementing advanced command platforms, bolstering crisis communication, improving management and training structures, and providing comprehensive psychological support services, all grounded in the empirical findings.
Actor-Critic Networks with Analogue Memristors Mimicking Reward-Based Learning
Authors: Portner Kevin , Zellweger Till , Martinelli Flavio , Bégon-Lours Laura , Bragaglia Valeria , Weilenmann Christoph , Jubin Daniel , Falcone Donato , Hermann Felix , Hrynkevych Oscar , Stecconi Tommaso , Porta Antonio La , Drechsler Ute , Olziersky Antonis , Offrein Bert , Gerstner Wulfram , Luisier Mathieu , Emboras Alexandros
Published: March 2024

Advancements in memristive devices have given rise to a new generation of specialized hardware for bio-inspired computing. However, the majority of these implementations only draw partial inspiration from the architecture and functionalities of the mammalian brain. Moreover, the use of memristive hardware is typically restricted to specific elements within the learning algorithm, leaving computationally expensive operations to be executed in software. Here, we demonstrate actor-critic temporal difference (TD) learning on analogue memristors, mirroring the principles of reward-based learning in a neural network architecture similar to the one found in biology. Within the learning algorithm, memristors are used as multi-purpose elements: They act as synaptic weights that are trained online, they calculate the weight updates directly in hardware, and they compute the actions for navigating through the environment. Thanks to these features, weight training can take place entirely in-memory, eliminating the need for data movement and enhancing processing speed. Also, our proposed learning scheme possesses self-correction capabilities that effectively counteract noise during the weight update process, which makes it a promising alternative to traditional error mitigation schemes. We test our framework on two classic navigation tasks - the T-maze and the Morris water-maze - using analogue memristors based on the valence change memory (VCM) effect. Our approach represents a first step towards fully in-memory, online, and error-resilient neuromorphic computing engines based on bio-inspired learning schemes.
99mTc-GSA scintigraphy and modified albumin–bilirubin score can be complementary to ICG for predicting posthepatectomy liver failure
Authors: Mii Satoshi , Takahara Takeshi , Shibasaki Susumu , Ishihara Takuma , Mizumoto Takuya , Uchida Yuichiro , Iwama Hideaki , Kojima Masayuki , Kato Yutaro , Suda Koichi
Published: March 2024

Background: Posthepatectomy liver failure (PHLF) remains a severe complication after liver resection. This retrospective study investigated the correlation of three hepatic functional tests and whether 99mTc-galactosyl human serum albumin (99mTc-GSA) scintigraphy and modified albumin–bilirubin (ALBI) score are useful for predicting PHLF.
Methods: A total of 413 consecutivepatients undergoing hepatectomies between January 2017 and December 2020 at our institution were enrolled in this retrospective cohort study. To evaluate preoperative hepatic functional reserve, modified ALBI grade, indocyanine green clearance (ICG-R15), and 99mTc-GSA scintigraphy (LHL15) were routinely examined before the scheduled hepatectomy. Based on the retrospective chart review, multivariate logistic regression analysis adjusted for confounding factors was performed to confirm that ALBI, ICG-R15, and LHL15 are independent risk factors for PHLF.
Results: ICG-R15 and LHL15 were moderately correlated (r = −0.61). However, the correlation with LHL15 weakened when ICG-R15 was about ³20. Weak correlations were observed between LHL15 and ALBI score (r = −0.269) and ALBI score and ICG-R15 (r = 0.339). Of 413 patients, 66 (19%) developed PHLF (grade A: n = 20, grade B: n = 44, grade C: n = 2). Multivariable logistic regression analyses, mALBI grade (P= .014) and ICG-R15 (P < .001) were significant independent risk factors for PHLF. Subgroup analysis showed that ICG-R15 <19, major hepatectomy, and mALBI grade and ICG-R15 ³19, major hepatectomy, and LHL15 were significant independent risk factors for PHLF (P =.036,.020,.043, and.013, respectively).
Conclusion: LHL15 and mALBI grade would be complementary to ICG-R15 for predicting PHLF risk.
The serine-rich repeat glycoprotein Srr2 mediates Streptococcus agalactiae interaction with host fibronectin
Authors: Pellegrini Angelica , Motta Chiara , Menegussi Elisa Bellan , Pierangelini Andrea , Viglio Simona , Beninati Concetta , De Filippis Vincenzo , Barbieri Giulia , PIETROCOLA GIAMPIERO
Published: March 2024

Background
Group B Streptococcus (GBS) is a commensal of healthy adults and an important pathogen in newborns, the elderly and immunocompromised individuals. GBS displays several virulence factors that promote colonisation and host infection, including the ST-17 strain-specific adhesin Srr2, previously characterised for its binding to fibrinogen. Another common target for bacterial adhesins and for host colonization is fibronectin, a multi-domain glycoprotein found ubiquitously in body fluids, in the extracellular matrix and on the surface of cells.
Results
In this study, fibronectin was identified as a novel ligand for the Srr2 adhesin of GBS. A derivative of the ST-17 strain BM110 overexpressing the srr2 gene showed an increased ability to bind fibrinogen and fibronectin, compared to the isogenic wild-type strain. Conversely, the deletion of srr2 impaired bacterial adhesion to both ligands. ELISA assays and surface plasmon resonance studies using the recombinant binding region (BR) form of Srr2 confirmed a direct interaction with fibronectin with an estimated Kd of 92 nM. Srr2-BR variants defective in fibrinogen binding also exhibited no interaction with fibronectin, suggesting that Srr2 binds this ligand through the dock-lock-latch mechanism, previously described for fibrinogen binding. The fibronectin site responsible for recombinant Srr2-BR binding was identified and localised in the central cell-binding domain of the protein. Finally, in the presence of fibronectin, the ability of a Δsrr2 mutant to adhere to human cervico-vaginal epithelial cells was significantly lower than the wild-type strain.
Conclusion
By combining genetic and biochemical approaches, here we demonstrate a new role for Srr2, namely interacting with fibronectin. We characterised the molecular mechanism of this interaction and demonstrated that it plays a role in promoting the adhesion of GBS to human cervico-vaginal epithelial cells, further substantiating the role of Srr2 as a factor responsible for the hypervirulence of GBS ST-17 strains. The discovery of the previously undescribed interaction between Srr2 and fibronectin establishes this adhesin as a key candidate for preventing GBS colonisation of host tissues.
Temperature and Degrees of Freedom of Potential Energy vs Its Kinetic Counterparts and Their Roles in Decoding Phase Transition
Authors: Zou Shengli , Wang Ankai
Published: March 2024

Temperature, a fundamental metric in thermal energy characterization, encounters intriguing exceptions during phase transitions, where it maintains a constant value despite significant internal energy alterations. Equipartition theorem also failed in interpreting these phenomena. In this study, we introduce a novel framework termed "potential energy temperature (Tpot)" and associated degrees of freedom (Dpot) to provide deeper insights into phase transitions. Our investigations reveal that Tpot diverges considerably from conventional temperature (Tkin) defined by kinetic energy, and Dpot is influenced not only by dimensions in Cartesian coordinate but also by the number of interacting atoms. A noteworthy finding is the correlation between phase changes and increased Dpot, which explains the observed increase in potential energy using the equipartition theorem. Additionally, we identify a sudden change in Tpot during the phase transition, diverging from conventional descriptions. Furthermore, our study unveils unconventional concepts, such as the potential energy of an atom being significantly lower at higher temperatures than at absolute zero. These findings offer a fresh perspective on the phase changes of matter, challenging existing paradigms and providing insights into this complex yet fundamental natural process.
Development and performance verification of AI-based software for quantitative diagnosis of human vertebral fractures
Authors: Arakawa Shoutaro , Shinohara Akira , Arimura Daigo , Fukuda Takeshi , Takumi Yukihiro , Nishino Kazuyoshi , Saito Mitsuru
Published: March 2024

Quantitative morphometry (QM) is crucial to accurately diagnose and perform follow-up of vertebral fractures. Although the semiquantitative technique by Genant is prevalent, its accuracy and reproducibility are low. This study combines an AI model that identifies the position of each vertebral body from thoracic and lumbar lateral X-ray images with another AI model that determines vertebral body height ratios required for QM to develop a software for automatic evaluations. The learning data set comprised 3,082 vertebrae annotated by an orthopedic specialist. Thereafter, the correlation and concordance were evaluated between the specialist in the validation set and external evaluators in the test set. The software required approximately 6 s to read one image. For the validation set, Spearman’s correlation coefficient (rs) was 0.605, 0.721, and 0.798 for C/A, C/P, and A/P, respectively. Bland–Altman analysis indicated that the percentage within the limits of agreement (LOA) was 96.8%, 95.7%, and 94.9%, respectively, which decreased as the vertebral body compression increased. For the test set, rs were between 0.519–0.589, 0.558–0.647, and 0.735–0.770, respectively, and the correlations between the external evaluators were similar. Additionally, LOAs were almost above 95%. The proposed software is expected to improve the diagnosis of vertebral fractures and osteoporosis, enabling appropriate treatment.
Synergetic hydrogen-bond network of functionalized graphene and cations for enhanced atmospheric water capture
Authors: Joshi Rakesh , Ren Xiaojun , Sui Xiao , Owens Llewellyn , Ji Dali , Wen Xinyue , Nishina Yuta , Pant Kamal , Quintano Vanesa , Andreeva Daria , Novoselov Konstantin , Karton Amir , Foller Tobias
Published: March 2024

Water molecules at the solid-liquid interface display intricate behaviours sensitive to small changes. The presence of different interfacial components, such as cations or functional groups, shape the physical and chemical properties of the hydrogen bond network. Understanding such interfacial hydrogen-bond networks is essential for a large range of applications and scientific questions. To probe the interfacial hydrogen-bond network, atmospheric water capture is a powerful tool. Here, we experimentally observe that a calcium ion on a calcium-intercalated graphene oxide aerogel (Ca-GOA) surface captures 2.7 times more water molecules than in its freestanding state. From density functional theory (DFT) calculations, we uncover the synergistically enhanced hydrogen-bond network of the calcium ion-epoxide complex due to significantly larger polarizations and hydrogen bond enthalpies. This study reveals valuable insights into the interfacial water hydrogen-bond network on functionalized carbon-cation complexed surfaces and potential pathways for future atmospheric water generation technologies.
Clinical features and new perspectives on follow-up and treatment of secondary hyperparathyroidism in patients with chronic kidney disease
Authors: Ren Linan , Xiao Xianchao , Cai Yunjia , Liu Siyuan , Gang Xiaokun , Wang Guixia
Published: March 2024

With the global prevalence of chronic kidney disease (CKD), the incidence of secondary hyperparathyroidism (SHPT) has gradually increased. The SHPT increase cardiovascular morbidity and mortality in patients with CKD. However, clinical observations have found that SHPT in CKD patients has not attracted sufficient attention from clinicians. Therefore, our study investigated the current status of treatment of SHPT patients with CKD and found that 86.3% of patients had substandard parathyroid hormone (PTH) according to the KDOQI guidelines, and 44.5% of SHPT patients requiring pharmacologic or surgical interventions were not appropriately treated according to the KDIGO guidelines. Additionally, we analyzed the clinical characteristics of SHPT patients with CKD and found that PTH levels were lower in elderly, diabetic nephropathy patients, eGFR and adjusted serum calcium ion concentration were independent risk factors for increased PTH, and dialysis improved serum hypocalcemia better than hyperphosphatemia. Based on these findings, we propose some new recommendations for the follow-up and treatment of SHPT patients with CKD.
Enhanced Multiscale Human Brain Imaging by Semi-supervised Digital Staining and Serial Sectioning Optical Coherence Tomography
Authors: Tian Lei , Cheng Shiyi , Chang Shuaibin , Li Yunzhe , Novoseltseva Anna , Lin Sunni , Wu Yicun , Zhu Jiahui , Mckee Ann , Rosene Douglas , Wang Hui , Bigio Irving , Boas David
Published: March 2024

A major challenge in neuroscience is to visualize the structure of the human brain at different scales. Traditional histology reveals micro- and meso-scale brain features, but suffers from staining variability, tissue damage and distortion that impedes accurate 3D reconstructions. Here, we present a new 3D imaging framework that combines serial sectioning optical coherence tomography (S-OCT) with a deep-learning digital staining (DS) model. We develop a novel semi-supervised learning technique to facilitate DS model training on weakly paired images. The DS model performs translation from S-OCT to Gallyas silver staining. We demonstrate DS on various human cerebral cortex samples with consistent staining quality. Additionally, we show that DS enhances contrast across cortical layer boundaries. Furthermore, we showcase geometry-preserving 3D DS on cubic-centimeter tissue blocks and visualization of meso-scale vessel networks in the white matter. We believe that our technique offers the potential for high-throughput, multiscale imaging of brain tissues and may facilitate studies of brain structures.
PPI use associated with decreased new-onset diabetes risk in Korean NHIS-HEALS cohort
Authors: Kim Ye-Seul , Kim Jeong-Sook , You Hyo-sun , Kim Joungyoun , Kang Hee-Taik
Published: March 2024

Several studies investigating the association between PPI use and new-onset diabetes mellitus (NODM) reported conflicting results. Herein, the association between PPI prescription and NODM in Koreans was examined. This study used the National Health Insurance Service-Health Screening cohort (NHIS-HEALS) database to identify adults ≥ 40 years without a history of diabetes. The dose of each PPI was converted into an omeprazole equivalent (OME) dose. Cumulative PPI prescriptions were categorized into four groups according to the OME dose: non-users, 1st tertile (T1), 2nd tertile (T2), and 3rd tertile (T3). We estimated the hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for NODM using multivariate Cox proportional hazards regression analysis. During 9.8 years of mean follow-up for 82,590 participants, 9,464 (11.5%) developed NODM. Compared to non-users, the full adjusted HRs (95% CIs) of the T1, T2, and T3 for NODM were 0.57 (0.53 − 0.62), 0.55 (0.51 − 0.59), and 0.48 (0.45 − 0.52), in men and 0.62 (0.56 − 0.68), 0.57 (0.51 − 0.63), and 0.46 (0.41 − 0.51), in women, respectively (all p < 0.001). These trends were observed after stratifying the entire population into statin users and non-users or individuals with normoglycemia and impaired fasting glucose. Therefore, cumulative PPI prescription doses were associated with a lower risk of NODM in Korean adults.