bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Quali-quantitative Assessment of Solid Waste Generated at Ifgoiano- Rio Verde
Authors: de Oliveira Marcos Fernandes , Couto Bruno de Oliveira Costa , junior Edio Damásio da Silva
Published: February 2024

On a university campus, the diversity of types of waste is substantially relevant, as there are theoretical and practical classes, laboratory and field tests, maintenance of furniture, utensils and installations, in addition to a pulsating community that uses the campus space intensively for much of its day, including its food. In view of the above, this study aimed to carry out a qualitative and quantitative inventory of the solid waste generated on the premises of the Instituto Federal Goiano - Campus Rio Verde, using the methodological procedures suggested by NBR 10004/2004 with adaptations for the campus. Nine collection points were evaluated, listed from one to nine, three of which were voluntary drop-off points (PEVs), identified as 1, 5 and 7. The remaining six were distributed around the campus in areas close to laboratories and classrooms. The evaluation period ran from February to October 2022, with two monthly collections, always on days before the municipal public service's known collection times. The research was divided into two stages, the first of which was to apply questionnaires assessing consumption and waste generation, surveying the type of material generated, the frequency of disposal, the destination of this material and forms of packaging for segregation. This was followed by a gravimetric survey of nine identified and mapped collection points. The aim was to identify the profile of waste-producing agents, the amount generated, segregated and sent for recycling, what is sent to the municipal landfill and its possibility of recovery. A total of 5,008.34 kg of solid waste was collected, of which 23.4% was thermoplastics, 11.8% cardboard, 13% food waste, and 28.9% was collected at voluntary drop-off points by recycling cooperatives. The study also found that at points 2, 3, 6 and 8, the volumes of thermoplastics and cardboard are higher than those disposed of at the PEVs, demonstrating that although there is a perception of the importance of recycling, it is still deficient. projecting for one year based on the amount found, in the area used by the Campus, an amount of 0.22t/inhab/year of solid waste generation was obtained
Identification of a HAGLR/miR-338-3p/GALNT2 regulatory axis in laryngocarcinoma based on bioinformatics analysis
Authors: Liu Hao , JIang Qichuan , Wang Yijie , Qian Ming
Published: February 2024

GALNT2 is associated with the occurrence and development of many tumors, but its role in laryngeal carcinoma has not been studied. This study used TCGA and GEO databases to analyze GALNT2 expression in laryngeal cancer and adjacent tissues. Western blot, immunohistochemistry, and RT-qPCR were used to validate results. Survival analysis assessed the impact of GALNT2 expression on patient prognosis. KEGG and GSEA enrichment analyses identified biological pathways associated with GALNT2. CIBERSORT algorithm examined the effect of GALNT2 on tumor immune cell infiltration. ENCORI database built a ceRNA network. TIMER2.0 database studied GALNT2 expression in various tumors. The results find that GALNT2 is highly expressed in laryngeal cancer patients and has prognostic implications. Enrichment analysis showed that GALNT2 is involved in various carcinogenic pathways. GALNT2 expression levels were significantly correlated with immune cell and immune checkpoint content in the tumor microenvironment. The HAGLR/miR-338-3p/GALNT2 regulatory axis may affect laryngeal cancer development. GALNT2 expression levels also differed significantly among other tumor types, as shown in our pan-cancer analysis. GALNT2 is a significant factor in the prognosis and immune cell infiltration of laryngeal cancer patients, indicating its potential as a useful prognostic marker for laryngeal cancer.
The Carboxymethyl cellulose-based slimming gel containing nano-liposomes loaded with chili pepper and ginger extracts: As destroyer jelly of obesity
Authors: Jalilian Saba , Arkan Elham , Alvandi Hosna , Aghaz Faranak
Published: February 2024

Obesity is a major global health issue that negatively impacts individuals and societies. It can lead to obesity-related illnesses, reduced quality of life, and even death. Diet, exercise, and surgery are basic solutions to overcome obesity, but due to the long duration of the treatment and sometimes the lack of appropriate results, create limitations. In this study for the first time, Carboxy methyl cellulose-based slimming gel containing nanoliposomes loaded chili pepper and ginger extracts (CMC-sliming gel containing Chi/G-NLPs), as bioactive fat burners, has been investigated for potential application in the fat burning and weight loss. Finally produced Nano-Gel (Ch/G-NLPs-CMC) were confirmed through scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), dynamic light scattering (DLS), Zeta potential, in vitro release profile and in vitro skin absorption assays. In vitro skin absorption assay showed 30% after 2.5 h use of CMC-sliming gel containing Chi/G-NLPs. In addition, the CMC-sliming gel containing Chi/G-NLPs size was 156 nm. In vitro release behavior of CMC-sliming gel containing Chi/G-NLPs showed slow control released at 24 h then a sharp peak release observed at 48 h. Our result confirmed the synergistic effect of chili pepper and ginger in the Nano-Gel platform, as a novel topical treatment, for eliminating local fat and a destroyer jelly of obesity.
Examining the role of personality functioning in a hierarchical taxonomy of psychopathology using two years of ambulatory assessed data
Authors: Kerber André , Ehrenthal Johannes , Zimmermann Johannes , Remmers Carina , Nolte Tobias , Wendt Leon , Heim Phileas , Müller Sascha , Beintner Ina , Knaevelsrud Christine
Published: February 2024

The Hierarchical Taxonomy of Psychopathology (HiTOP) arranges phenotypes of mental disorders based on empirical covariation, ranging from narrowly defined symptoms to higher-order spectra of psychopathology. Since the introduction of personality functioning (PF) in DSM-5 and ICD-11, several studies have identified PF as a transdiagnostic predictor of psychopathology. However, the role of PF in the HiTOP classification system has not been systematically examined. This study investigates how PF can be integrated into HiTOP, whether PF accounts for transdiagnostic variance captured in higher-order spectra, and how its predictive value for affective well-being (AWB) and psychosocial impairment (PSI) compares to the predictive value of specific psychopathology. To this end, we examined two years of ambulatory assessed data on psychopathology, PF, PSI, and AWB of N = 27 173 users of a mental health app. Results of bass-ackwards analyses largely aligned with the current HiTOP working model. Using bifactor modeling, aspects of PF were identified to capture most of the internalizing, thought disorder, and externalizing higher order factor variance. In longitudinal prediction analyses employing bifactor-(S-1) modeling, PF explained 58.6% and 30.6% of one-year variance and 33.1% and 23.2% of two-year variance in ambulatory assessed PSI and AWB, respectively. Results indicate that personality functioning may largely account for transdiagnostic variance captured in the higher-order components in HiTOP as well as longitudinal outcomes of PSI and AWB. Clinicians and their patients may benefit from assessing PF aspects such as identity problems or internal relationship models in a broad range of mental disorders. Further, incorporating measures of PF may advance research in biological psychiatry by providing empirically sound phenotypes.
Determination of Volatile Components in Lemon Peels at different ripe stages
Authors: li chunxiu
Published: February 2024

Volatiles are important components determining fruit flavor and consumer preferences, and also essential indicators affecting the industrial processing value of fruits. Volatiles in peels of meyer lemon and rough lemon at five harvest stages were characterized through headspace solid-phase microextraction combined with gas chromatography mass spectrometry. 68 volatiles were identified including seven chemical sorts. Among them fifty-one significant varied with fruit ripening.Monoterpenes increased while sesquiterpenes decreased with fruit ripening. D-limonene and wasβ-bisabolene the most riched monoterpene and sesquiterpene respectly.Among oxygenated volatile compounds, aldehydes, alcohols, and others were much abundant than esters and ketones,which in two cultivars generallly decreased with fruit ripenging. Thymol and α-terpineol were the most aboudant oxygenated volatiles in meyer lemon and rough lemon respectively, both of them reached the highest level at first harvest period.Meyer lemon peels especially the immature one was a good raw material for extracting thymol which is an important food spices.
Infectious cavernous sinus thrombosis complicated with meningitis, trigeminal neuralgia and denervation change: a case report
Authors: Chen Yu-Chun , Lai Hsin-Yi , Lee Yuarn-Jang , Kevin Li-Chun Hsieh
Published: February 2024

Background:
Cavernous sinus thrombosis is a rare and potentially life-threatening condition that can have various causes. Symptoms of this disorder include headache, reduced visual acuity, focal neurological symptoms, seizures, and cranial nerve deficits, depending on the structures involved. Although rare, sensory and motor trigeminal neuropathy can be an initial presentation of cavernous sinus thrombosis.
Case presentation:
A 67-year-old female presented with trigeminal neuralgia, followed by tinnitus, vertigo, and trismus. Upon arrival at the emergency department, she also exhibited fever, dizziness, and neck stiffness. The patient had received a tooth implant months before experiencing these symptoms. Initial magnetic resonance imaging revealed homogeneously increased T2 signal and contrast enhancement of bilateral temporalis and masseter muscles, indicating denervation changes of the bilateral trigeminal nerves. Imaging features of basal meningitis and cavernous sinus thrombosis were also noted. Lumbar puncture and laboratory tests were performed, and blood culture revealed Streptococcus intermedius. The patient was diagnosed with meningitis and cavernous sinus thrombosis, complicated by trigeminal neuropathy. She was treated with vancomycin and amoxicillin, and her clinical symptoms greatly improved. Follow-up magnetic resonance imaging studies showed regression of the trigeminal denervation signals.
Conclusion:
This case report highlights a rare presentation of cavernous sinus thrombosis and basal meningitis, where the initial symptom was trigeminal neuropathy. Denervation changes of the bilateral trigeminal nerves were detected in the MRI study. Therefore, clinicians should be aware that trigeminal neuropathy may be the earliest manifestation of cavernous sinus thrombosis. It is crucial to consider secondary causes of this life-threatening disease to ensure prompt diagnosis and management.
Contactless temperature measurements on FSWed joints in aluminium and magnesium alloys
Authors: Bianchi Iacopo , Forcellese Archimede , MANCIA TOMMASO , Mignanelli Chiara
Published: February 2024

IIn this work, the heating distribution on similar and dissimilar friction stir welded joints in aluminium and magnesium alloys sheets was studied. Friction Stir Welding processes were performed using constant rotational and welding speeds of 1500 rpm and 60 mm/min, respectively. In order to obtain a completely non-intrusive and temperature monitoring measurement technique, a contactless method based on infrared thermography was used to remotely analyse the temperature distribution over the welded area, near the tool during the Friction Stir Welding process. It was observed that the mechanical properties of joints are strictly related to the heat distribution. This system was used both to experimentally evaluate the temperature on the top surface of the joints and as it is able to detect the presence of flow defects with a contactless and non-destructive method, demonstrating the effectiveness of this measuring system as a diagnostic tool for the online quality control of welded joints.
SMCHD1 genetic variants in type 2 FacioScapuloHumeral dystrophy and challenges in predicting pathogenicity and disease penetrance.
Authors: Magdinier Frederique , Gerard Laurene , Delourme Megane , Ganne Benjamin , Perrin Pierre , Chaix Charlène , Trani Jean Philippe , Eudes Nathalie , Laberthonniere Camille , Tardy Charlotte , Bertaux Karine , Missirian Chantal , Bassez Guillaume , BEHIN Anthony , Cintas Pascal , Cluse Florent , Cruz Elisa de la , Delmont Emilien , Evangelista Teresinha , FRADIN Mélanie , Hadouri Nawale , Kouton Ludivine , LAFORET Pascal , Lefeuvre Claire , Magot Armelle , Manel Véronique , Nectoux Juliette , Pegat Antoine , Sol� Guilhem , Spinazzi Marco , STOJKOVIC Tanya , Svahn Juliette , Tard Celine , Thauvin Christel , Camille Verebi , Campana-Salort Emmanuelle , Attarian Shahram , Nguyen Karine , Badache Ali , Bernard Rafaelle
Published: February 2024

The molecular diagnosis of type 1 FacioScapuloHumeral Dystrophy (FSHD1) relies on the detection of a shortened D4Z4 array at the 4q35 locus while until recently, the diagnosis of FSHD2 relied on the absence of a shortened D4Z4 allele in clinically affected patients. The vast majority of FSHD2 patients carry a heterozygous variant in the SMCHD1 gene. In addition, a decreased in D4Z4 DNA methylation is consistently associated with FSHD1 and FSHD2. In molecular genetic diagnostics, predicting the pathogenicity of SMCHD1 variants remains challenging, as many are classified as variants of unknown significance or likely pathogenic. To refine the diagnosis of FSHD2, define 4q-associated molecular features and validate the pathogenicity of SMCHD1 variants, we explored a cohort of 54 FSHD2 patients carrying a variant in SMCHD1 or hemizygosity of the 18p32 locus encompassing the gene. Genetic and epigenetic analyses together with a clinical description of patients were combined to confirm the pathogenicity of new SMCHD1 variants and previously reported ones initially classified as likely pathogenic. We defined a threshold of 40% of methylation at the D4Z4 DR1 site as associated with SMCHD1 pathogenic variants. We also showed that the number of D4Z4 units on the shortest 4qA allele ranges from 11 up to 35 units in patients clinically affected with FSHD2. Using prediction tools, our study further highlighted the difficulty in interpretating the impact of pathogenic variants on the severity of the disease. Our study further emphasizes the complex relationship between D4Z4 methylation, SMCHD1 variants, and disease penetrance in FSHD.
Metagenomic Analysis of Bronchoalveolar Lavage Fluid Enables Differential Diagnosis Between Lung Cancer and Pulmonary Infections
Authors: Chen Yu , Han Dongsheng , Yu Fei , Yang Bin , Shen Yifei , Zhang Dan , Liu Huifang , Bin Lou , Lou Bin , Wang Jingchao , Murugesan Kanagavel , Tang Hui , Zhou Hua , Xie Mengxiao , Yuan Lingjun , Zhou Jieting , Zheng Shufa
Published: February 2024

Recent advances in unbiased metagenomic next-generation sequencing (mNGS) have enabled the simultaneous examination of both microbial and host genetic material in a single test. This study harnesses cost-effective bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) mNGS data from patients with lung cancer (n=123) and pulmonary infections (n=279). We developed a machine learning-based diagnostic approach to differentiate between these two conditions, which are often misdiagnosed in clinical settings. To ensure independence between model construction and validation, we divided the cohorts based on the collection dates of the samples. The training cohort (lung cancer, n=87; pulmonary infection, n=197) revealed distinct differences in DNA/RNA microbial composition, bacteriophage abundances, and host responses, including gene expression, transposable element levels, immune cell composition, and tumor fraction determined by copy number variation (CNV). These features, blinded to the validation cohort, were integrated into a host/microbe metagenomics-driven machine learning model (Model VI). The model demonstrated an Area Under the Curve (AUC) of 0.87 (95% CI = 0.857-0.883) in the training cohort and 0.831 (95% CI = 0.819-0.843) in the validation cohort for differentiating between patients with lung cancer and pulmonary infections. Applying a composite predictive model based on a rule-in and rule-out strategy significantly increased accuracy in distinguishing lung cancer from tuberculosis (ACC=0.913), fungal infection (ACC=0.955), and bacterial infection (ACC=0.836). These results underscore the potential of mNGS-based analysis as a valuable, cost-effective tool for the early differentiation of lung cancer from pulmonary infections, offering a comprehensive testing solution in a clinical context.
Laparoscopic Surgical Techniques and Outcomes for Surgically Managed Ectopic Pregnancies. A 10-Year Synopsis at a tertiary referral center in Nairobi, Kenya
Authors: Mutiso Steve Kyende
Published: February 2024

Background:
Ectopic Pregnancies(EP) are a pregnancy related complication that can have significant morbidity. Due to this fact and the fact that most present after rupture, surgical management forms the cornerstone of management of most EP. We set out to conduct an audit ,for a 10-year period, on laparoscopically managed EP at a tertiary referral center with focus on surgical techniques used, outcomes and correlations of complications to outcomes.
Methods:
This study was designed as a Retrospective Clinical Audit based at the Aga Khan University Hospital (AKUH). Study population was all women admitted to AKUH with a diagnosis of ectopic pregnancy that was surgically managed between the period of January 1st 2011 to December 31st 2020. Analysis of data was done against a pre-set checklist. Descriptive statistics for continuous variables was calculated and tabulated in graphs and tables. SPSS version 22 was used for analysis of data.
Results:
A total of 324 patients were recruited in the analysis of surgical treatment of EP. 86.1% had a total salpingectomy done; 5.2% had a partial salpingectomy done; 2.2% had a salpingostomy done; 4% had a fimbrial milking done; 1.9% had resection of the EP and 0.6% had and oophorectomy done. 64.8% of the surgeries used bipolar and scissors; 21.2% used endoloop while 5.6%(n = 18) used a combination of instruments. Most (92.4%; n = 302) of the patient did not require conversion to an open procedure. The rate of conversion decreased with advancing years. Almost all the surgeries were less than 2 hours (91.7%,n = 297) with only 1(0.3%) going past 3 hours. Most of the surgeries did not have complications (96.3%, n = 334). Duration of stay after surgery varied from 1–13 days. Most of the patients stayed for 2 days (90.8%, n = 296); 5.8%(n = 19) had a stay of 3 days and 3.4%(n = 11) had a stay of more than 4 days. Only 50 (15.2% of 347) patients in the present study had a documented subsequent pregnancy. 42 patients had an intrauterine pregnancy: 84%,n = 42 and 16%,n = 8 had a repeat ectopic pregnancy.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, the present study shows that total salpingectomy is the most common surgical treatment option for patients with EP with bipolar and scissors technique being used frequently. Low conversion to open surgery rates are observed with a decline being seen as the centers’ experience grows over the years. Surgery duration and hospital stay are within the expected norms for laparoscopically managed EP when compared to more experienced centers. Moreover, the low complication rate in the present study can be attributed to the advancing experience with EP over the years coupled with the low conversion rate to open surgery hence accrued benefits from a laparoscopic approach. Lastly, most of the patients with a recurred EP had had total salpingectomy pointing towards an inherent tubal disorder causing the recurrence.
Feasibility Study of an Embodied and Embedded Mindfulness- and Compassion-Based Intervention for Non-Suicidal Self-Injury Disorder
Authors: Schmelefske Emma , Per Megan , Anand Leena , Khoury Bassam , Heath Nancy
Published: February 2024

Background
Non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI) is associated with suicide risk, as well as a number of psychological disorders. This, coupled with its high prevalence rate, make it imperative that effective treatments for those who engage in NSSI are investigated and made available to the public. Despite this, few interventions specifically targeting NSSI have been researched. In fact, to date, there are no evidence-based treatments for NSSI. This study aimed to address this gap in the existing research by investigating the effectiveness, feasibility, and acceptability of an embodied and embedded mindfulness and compassion treatment (EEMCT) for individuals who engage in self-injury.
Methods
Six participants attended eight weekly two-hour group therapy sessions. Outcomes measured included urges to self-injure, as well as mental health symptoms commonly associated with NSSI (i.e., depression, anxiety, difficulty with emotion regulation, perceived stress). Outcomes were measured at pre-intervention, post-intervention, and six months follow-up.
Results
Anxiety decreased significantly from pre-intervention to post-intervention and from pre-intervention to follow-up. Depressive symptoms also significantly decreased from pre-intervention to follow-up, as did emotion regulation. Perceived stress did not show significant change across time points, nor did urges to self-injure. Participants gave feedback about the intervention in semi-structured interviews. They noted benefits of the intervention (e.g., learning self-kindness and awareness of thoughts and feelings), as well as several ways in which the intervention could be improved (e.g., more take-home practice material, shorter meditations). Conclusions
Is palliative care a utopia for older patients with organ failure, dementia or frailty? A qualitative study through the prism of emergency department admission
Authors: Bourmorck Delphine , Pétré Benoit , de Saint-Hubert Marie , De Brauwer Isabelle
Published: February 2024

Background
Nearly three out of four older people will use the emergency department (ED) during their last year of life. However, most of them do not benefit from palliative care. Providing palliative care is a real challenge for ED clinicians who are trained in acute, life-saving medicine. Our aim is to understand the ED’s role in providing palliative care for this population.
Methods
We designed a qualitative study based on 1) interviews – conducted with older patients (≥75 years) with a palliative profile and their informal caregivers – and 2) focus groups – conducted with ED and primary care nurses and physicians. Palliative profiles were defined by the Supportive and Palliative Indicators tool (SPICT). Qualitative data was collected in French-speaking Belgium between July 2021 and July 2022. We used a constant inductive and comparative analysis.
Results
Five older patients with a palliative profile, four informal caregivers, 55 primary and ED caregivers participated in this study. A priori, the participants did not perceive any role for the ED in palliative care. In fact, there is a widespread discomfortwith caring for older patients and providing palliative care. This is explained by multiple areas of tensions. Palliative care is an approach fraught with pitfalls, i.e.: knowledge and know-how gaps, their implementation depends on patients’(co)morbidity profile and professional values, experiences and type of practice. In ED, there are constant tensions between emergency and palliative care requirements, i.e.: performance, clockwork and needs for standardised procedures versus relational care, time and diversity of palliative care projects. However, even though the ED’s role in palliative care is not recognised at first sight, we highlighted four roles assumed by ED caregivers: 1) Investigator, 2) Objectifier, 3) Palliative care provider, and 4) Decision-maker on the intensity of care. Their main perspective is that ED caregivers could be the identifiers of early palliative profile.
Conclusions
Even if there are still major obstacles to implementing palliative care for older patients upon admission to the emergency department, ED caregivers already assume certain roles, although they do not recognise them as such. In the future, ED caregivers might also endorse the role of early identifier.
Unraveling the atomic structure evolution of titanium nitride upon oxidation
Authors: Li Qianqian , Hao Ronghui , Miao Wenkang , Xu Wanyin , Lin Yicheng , Xiao Qiling , Wang Zihan , Wang Peng , Wang Tianzhong , Nie Anmin , Wu Jinsong , Wang Hongtao
Published: February 2024

Oxidation-induced structural failure is a major issue in high-strength non-oxide ceramics, yet the atomic-level structural changes underlying phase transformation have remained elusive. Here, we present a study that employs state-of-the-art aberration-corrected environmental transmission electron microscopy to unravel the atomic-scale structural evolution of titanium nitride during dynamic oxidation. Our findings reveal two distinct reaction pathways, each characterized by the migration of titanium atoms through the formation of chains of titanium vacancies and staggered titanium vacancies. We demonstrate that these pathways are significantly influenced by both crystal orientation and surface curvature. Our rigorous First-principles calculations elucidate the underlying mechanism, revealing that titanium atoms have the highest kinetics for moving out along the {200} family, while their movement is modulated by surface strain involved in curvature changes. This insight is further substantiated by macroscopic oxidation experiments, affirming that the precision control of material orientation indeed enhances antioxidative performance. Our research holds immense scientific and technological significance, advancing our understanding of materials' antioxidation performance and ultimately bolstering durability and extending lifespan.
Clinical, genomic, and neurophysiological correlates of lifetime suicide attempts among individuals with alcohol dependence
Authors: Barr Peter , Neale Zoe , Chatzinakos Chris , Schulman Jessica , Mullins Niamh , Zhang Jian , Chorlian David , Kamarajan Chella , Kinreich Sivan , Pandey Ashwini , Pandey Gayathri , de Viteri Stacey Saenz , Acion Laura , Bauer Lance , Bucholz Kathleen , Chan Grace , Dick Danielle , Edenberg Howard , Foroud Tatiana , Goate Alison , Hesselbrock Victor , Johnson Emma , Kramer John , Lai Dongbing , Plawecki Martin , Salvatore Jessica , Wetherill Leah , Agrawal Arpana , Porjesz Bernice , Meyers Jacquelyn
Published: February 2024

Research has identified clinical, genomic, and neurophysiological markers associated with suicide attempts (SA) among individuals with psychiatric illness. However, there is limited research among those with an alcohol use disorder (AUD), despite their disproportionately higher rates of SA. We examined lifetime SA in 4,068 individuals with DSM-IV alcohol dependence from the Collaborative Study on the Genetics of Alcoholism (23% lifetime suicide attempt; 53% female; 17% Admixed African American ancestries; mean age: 38). We 1) conducted a genome-wide association study (GWAS) of SA and performed downstream analyses to determine whether we could identify specific biological pathways of risk, and 2) explored risk in aggregate across other clinical conditions, polygenic scores (PGS) for comorbid psychiatric problems, and neurocognitive functioning between those with AD who have and have not reported a lifetime suicide attempt. The GWAS and downstream analyses did not produce any significant associations. Participants with an AUD who had attempted suicide had greater rates of trauma exposure, major depressive disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, and other substance use disorders compared to those who had not attempted suicide. Polygenic scores for suicide attempt, depression, and PTSD were associated with reporting a suicide attempt (ORs = 1.22–1.44). Participants who reported a SA also had decreased right hemispheric frontal-parietal theta and decreased interhemispheric temporal-parietal alpha electroencephalogram resting-state coherences relative to those who did not, but differences were small. Overall, individuals with alcohol dependence who report SA appear to experience a variety of severe comorbidities and elevated polygenic risk for SA. Our results demonstrate the need to further investigate suicide attempts in the presence of substance use disorders.
A Prospective Study on Incomplete Radiofrequency Ablation in the Treatment of Colorectal Cancer Liver Metastasis
Authors: Lu Huilin , Dong Xiangjun , Xie Xuancheng , Xia Xiangwen , Tang Bufu , Fan Hongjie
Published: February 2024

Objectives
To identify the predictors of incomplete percutaneous radiofrequency ablation (RFA) of colorectal cancer liver metastases (CLMs) and evaluate the impact of incomplete RFA (iRFA) on the overall survival (OS) of patients and new intrahepatic metastases (NIHM).
Methods
We prospectively analyzed the data of patients with CLM who received percutaneous RFA. Dynamic contrast-enhanced computed tomography was used to assess ablation. All CLMs were divided into development and internal validation cohorts. We analyzed the predictive factors of iRFA in the development cohort and assessed the status of NIHM and OS of all patients through the Kaplan–Meier method.
Results
One hundred and sixty-four patients (mean age, 60.6 ± 11.3 years; 104 men) with 338 tumors were included in this study. Perivascular tumor location, tumor size ≥ 20 mm, and minimal ablative margin were independent predictors of iRFA. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve was 0.884 and 0.857 for the development and internal validation cohorts, respectively. NIHM were more likely to occur in the iRFA group than in the complete RFA (cRFA) group (χ2 = 26.811, P < 0.001). The estimated median OS was 45 months, and the cumulative OS for 1, 3, and 5 years was 92.2%, 59.7%, and 41.2%, respectively. The OS of the iRFA group was 39 months shorter than that of the cRFA group (χ2 = 12.269, P < 0.001).
Conclusions
Non-perivascular tumor location, tumor size < 2 cm, and a sufficient minimum ablation margin are essential for cRFA. Incomplete RFAs are related to the occurrence of NIHM and a much shorter OS.
Ongoing transmission of trachoma in low prevalence districts in Mozambique: Results from four cross-sectional enhanced impact surveys, 2022
Authors: Sitoe Henis , Oswald William Edward , Zita Felizmina , Fall Mawo , Momade Tamimo , Adams Molly W , Flueckiger Rebecca M , McPherson Scott , Eyob Sabrina , Doan Thuy , Lietman Thomas M , Arnold Benjamin F , Wickens Karana , Gwyn Sarah , Martin Diana L , Kasubi Mabula , Boyd Sarah , Bakhtiari Ana , Jimenez Cristina , Solomon Anthony W , Harding-Esch Emma M , Ngondi Jeremiah M
Published: February 2024

Mozambique is making progress towards elimination of trachoma as a public health problem, but in some districts trachomatous inflammation—follicular (TF) prevalence remains above the 5% elimination threshold despite years of various interventions, including antibiotic mass drug administration. To characterize transmission in four districts, we incorporated testing of ocular infection and serology into routine trachoma impact surveys (TIS) in August 2022. We examined residents aged ≥ 1 year for trachoma and collected information on household water, sanitation, and hygiene. Among children aged 1–9 years, we tested conjunctival swabs for Chlamydia trachomatis nucleic acid and dried blood spots for C. trachomatis antibodies. We modeled age-dependent seroprevalence to estimate seroconversion rate (SCR). We examined 4,841 children aged 1–9 years. TF prevalence ranged between 1.1–6.0% with three districts below the 5% threshold. PCR-confirmed infection prevalence ranged between 1.1–4.8%, and Pgp3 seroprevalence ranged between 8.8–24.3%. Pgp3 SCR was 1.9 per 100 children per year in the district with the lowest TF prevalence. Two other districts with TF < 5% had SCR of 5.0 and 4.7. The district with TF ≥ 5% had a SCR of 6.0. This enhanced TIS furthered understanding of transmission in these districts and provides information on additional indicators for monitoring trachoma programs.
Significance of microbial binding in the formation and stabilization of a Silurian carbonate forereef slope
Authors: Torres Alejandra Santiago , Grammer G. Michael , Eberli Gregor P. , Diaz Mara R. , Gregg Jay
Published: February 2024

The effect of microbial binding for the stabilization of steep carbonate slopes is well documented in Cenozoic examples but its significance and relationship with abiotic marine cements in Paleozoic reef systems and steep slopes is not yet fully understood. Here, samples from a Late Silurian (Ludlovian) reef complex are evaluated by using an integrated approach that involves petrographic and isotope analyses, cathodoluminescence microscopy, and environmental scanning electron microscopy. This study reveals the in situ production of mineral fabrics of microbial origins, including micrite, peloidal micrite with dendritic fabrics, meniscus and bridge-like cements. This study stresses the leading role of microbes in the early lithification stages that led to the stabilization of Silurian steep carbonate slopes. These findings are further supported by the occurrence of fossilized microbes and extracellular polymeric substance. The micritic cements are first step in the diagenetic paragenesis followed by abiotic fibrous and equant calcite cements whose stable isotope values are in concert with estimated values of calcite precipitated in equilibrium with Silurian seawater. Based on these findings, we develop a model for the sedimentology and diagenesis of Silurian (Niagaran) reefs in and around the Michigan Basin. Results from this project provide insights into the relationship between microbial binding and early abiotic marine cements in ancient reef systems.
Relationship Between Heated Tobacco Products and Placental Abruption: A Prospective Cohort Study Using Online Questionnaire
Authors: Ooba Hikaru , Maki Jota , Tabuchi Takahiro , Masuyama Hisashi
Published: February 2024

Background
Placental abruption (PA) is a critical obstetric complication, with maternal smoking recognized as a key risk factor. Despite the increased use of heated tobacco products (HTPs), the impact of HTPs remains unclear. This study investigated whether pregnant women using HTPs are at a higher risk of PA than non-users.
Methods
We analyzed data from "the Japan COVID-19 and Society Internet Survey," a prospective, self-reported online survey cohort. Questionnaires were randomly distributed between July 28, 2021, and August 30, 2021. Pregnant respondents in 2021 were invited to complete an additional survey from February 14, 2022, to February 28, 2022. We set the outcome as the absolute risk difference (aRD) and relative risk ratio (rRR) of PA incidence due to smoking HTPs in the first trimester of pregnancy. The sample size included 12 836 participants. We calculated outcomes using a generalized linear model (GLM) and inverse probability of treatment weighting (IPTW). We also performed a Bayesian approach and multiple-bias analysis for sensitivity analysis.
Results
We found the robust aRD of 0.07 (95% confidence interval (CI): 0.06, 0.09) and the rRR of 11.3 (95% CI: 7.5, 17.0). Multiple bias analyses showed that unmeasurable confounders would need to have at least an rRR = 14 relationship with both exposure and outcome to disprove the observed association. There has not been post hoc analysis or secondary use of data.
Conclusion
Early pregnancy use of HTPs is associated with an increased risk of PA.
A Survey of Foundation Dentists’ Experiences of Clinical Audit
Authors: Jayawardena Don , Richardson Robin , Kellett Fleur , Heidari Ellie
Published: February 2024

IntroductionClinical Audit is one of the central pillars of Clinical Governance and is a valuable quality improvement tool. Clinical Audit has benefits for all stakeholders and provides evidence of compliance with the requirements of the UK statutory regulatory bodies. The levels of knowledge, experience and understanding of Clinical Audit of recent UK graduates is variable.AimTo explore Foundation Dentists’ experiences of Clinical Audit and to identify opportunities for improvement in the teaching of Clinical Audit in their Dental Foundation Training.MethodAn online survey was sent out to 231 Foundation Dentists, who had recently completed their foundation programme mandated audit project, in the Midlands and East of England Regions, in July 2022.ResultsA total of 40 Foundation Dentists completed the survey (17% response rate).The results show 30% of respondents feeling well prepared prior to their audit project, 45% of respondents were neutral in their response and only 25% felt unprepared for their audit project.DiscussionSeveral opportunities for improvement in the teaching of Clinical Audit in Dental Foundation Training were identified, such as development of an online resource bank.
Detection of Vancomycin- resistant S. aureus (VRSA) producing van A gene in Khartoum state, Sudan
Authors: Nasr Salma Abdullah Abdulmajeed , Seedahmed Sahar Mohammed , Idris Alkhair Abd Almahmoud
Published: February 2024

Background:
Staphylococcus aureus is a major causative agent of bacterial infection in Sudan. Resistance to antibiotic has increased dramatically over the past few years and has now researched a level that place patient in real danger. This study aimed to detect the resistance patterns of Staphylococcus aureusisolates, MDR and Vancomycin Resistance Staphylococcus aureus that produced Van A gene.
This study included 87 staphylococcus aureus isolates. The detection of the resistance isolates done by using different types of antimicrobial agents included as Oxacillin (1mcg), Penicillin (10mcg), Colistin (10mcg), Amoxicillin-clavulanic acid (10mcg), Ciprofloxacin (5mcg) and Vancomycin (30mcg). Then the PCR technique was done for Van A gene detection.
Results:
In this study isolates of S. aureus show that the highest resistance rate was reported among Penicillin 87(100%), Oxacillin 87(100%) which represents the prevalence of MRSA and Amoxicillin- clavulanic acid 87(100%). The isolates revealed elevated resistance rate for Colistin 79(90.8%).
The prevalence of Vancomycin Resistant 9(10.3%). The prevalence of Multidrug-Drug Resistance Staphylococcus aureus isolates was 36(41.4%),2 (22.2%) of VRSA isolates were positive to Van A gene.
Conclusions:
Methicillin resistance increases time to time rapidly. Vancomycin still a choice of treatment for Staphylococcus aureus infections.
WITHDRAWN: Study on prevalence, risk factors and clinical phenotypic appraisals of Theileria annulata infection in Gir cattle
Authors: Parmar Vijay L. , Vagh A. A. , Patel U. D. , Bilwal A. K. , Thakre B. J. , Brahmbhatt N. N. , Patbandha Tapaskumar , Parmar J. N.
Published: February 2024

The full text of this preprint has been withdrawn, as it was submitted in error. Therefore, the authors do not wish this work to be cited as a reference. Questions should be directed to the corresponding author.
Tectonic tremor: the chatter of mafic underplating beneath southern Vancouver Island?
Authors: Littel Geena , Bostock Michael , Sammis Charles , Peacock Simon , Calvert Andrew
Published: February 2024

Tremor is a low-amplitude seismic signal that usually temporally coincides with episodic slow fault slip at plate boundaries worldwide. Since the discovery of tremor in Cascadia, significant effort has been devoted to understanding its relationship to slow slip. However, its source mechanism has been widely debated, owing in large part to the challenge of locating sources accurately in depth. We assemble a tremor catalog of 4,851 events for a ~ 10 X 20 km2 area on southern Vancouver Island from slow slip episodes in 2003–2005 using a cross-station detection method adapted from previous studies, which we extend to use both P- and S- waves, thereby recovering accurate depths. Tremor occurs in distinct, quasi-planar clusters in the plate boundary region at a depth near 39 km, just beneath a layer of high reflectivity and within a zone of elevated Poisson’s ratio. We interpret this tremor to represent mafic underplating, wherein shearing generates tremor and continuously erodes basaltic material of the upper few hundred meters of the oceanic crust. Comminuted basalt with an increasingly anisotropic fabric is gradually plated onto the overriding lithosphere to form the highly reflective layer. Localized areas of material transfer within the subduction zone may manifest the distinct tremor clusters.
Adolescent Suicide Behaviors are Associated with Accelerated Reductions in Cortical Gray Matter Volume and Maintenance of Behavioral Activation System Sensitivity
Authors: Zhou Yi , Neale Michael C.
Published: February 2024

Distinguishing those at risk of making a suicide attempt from those who experience only suicidal ideations remains a significant clinical challenge. Longitudinal studies during early adolescence may provide insight into altered brain and behavioral developmental trajectories among those who develop suicide behaviors (SB). Here, we applied linear mixed effects regression models to several global brain volumes and psychiatric/behavioral measures from the Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development Study®. We analyzed data from baseline up until the two-year follow-up, when participants were roughly 10 to 12 years of age. What distinguished those reporting SB from other groups was that they exhibited the greatest reductions in cortical gray brain matter volume. Those who developed SB also exhibited the greatest increase in DSM5-depression scores and were the only group that maintained their levels of Behavioral Activation System (BAS) Fun-Seeking behaviors. Finally, we applied a Cross-Lagged Panel Modelling approach and found evidence for a potential causal relationship between total cortical gray brain matter volume and BAS Fun-Seeking behaviors. Our results suggest that changes in cortical gray matter structure may impact behavioral approach systems which in turn increase the risk of suicide attempt during early adolescence.
Effects of a multidimensional approach based on exercise and mindfulness on pain, disability, quality of life, mental health, and gait parameters in patients with non-specific chronic low back pain: the BACKFIT randomized controlled trial.
Authors: Donoso Belén , Castellote-Caballero Yolanda , Villegas-Fuentes Alba , Tsiarleston Gavriella , Gil-Gutiérrez Yolanda Maria , Fernández-Álvarez José Enrique , Montes Santiago , Delgado-Fernández Manuel , Mesa Antonio , Molina-García Pablo , Pozuelo-Calvo Rocío , Membrilla-Mesa Miguel David , Segura-Jiménez Víctor
Published: February 2024

Background.
Low back pain (LBP) is among the most common types of chronic pain and the leading cause of disability worldwide. The BACKFIT randomized controlled trial is a multidimensional intervention that aims to determine the effectiveness of a multidimensional program, based on supervised exercise and mindfulness, compared to a control group on pain and disability, quality of life, mental health, and gait parameters in patients with non-specific chronic low back pain (NSCLBP).
Methods.
105 individuals. Inclusion criteria: Previously diagnosed with NSCLBP, be ≥ 18 and ≤ 65 years old, able to read and understand the informed consent, able to walk, move and communicate without external help. Exclusion criteria: serious lumbar structural disorders, acute or terminal illness, physical injury, mental illness, and medical prescriptions that prevented participating in the study. Individuals who will meet inclusion criteria will be randomly assigned to a supervised resistance exercise intervention group (2 days per week, 45 minutes per session), a multidimensional intervention group (same as supervised resistance exercise intervention group, and mindfulness 1 day per week, 2.5 hours per session) or a control group (usual care, 2 days per week, 45 minutes per session). The intervention will last 8 weeks. Primary outcome will be pain threshold, perceived acute pain, and disability due to pain. Secondary measures will be body composition, muscular fitness, gait parameters, device-measured physical activity and sedentary behaviour, self-reported sedentary behaviour, quality of life, pain catastrophizing, mental health, sleep duration and quality, and central sensitization.
Discussion.
This paper describes the protocol performed by a multidisciplinary team of experts in Physical Therapy and Sports Sciences. Combining physical (exercise) and psychological (mindfulness) therapy, might determine greater benefits in pain, disability, quality of life, mental health, and gait parameters in individuals with NSCLBP. This multidimensional approach might be effective for short- and intermediate-term improvement on pain and functioning in patients with chronic musculoskeletal pain. Moreover, if the multidimensional program is effective, will diminish future costs of clinical treatment and low-cost alternatives for health professionals will be available.
Trial registration:
NCT05443880.
Drug repurposing for Parkinson’s disease by biological pathway based edge-weighted network proximity analysis
Authors: Han Manyoung , Jung Seunghwan , Lee Doheon
Published: February 2024

Parkinson’s disease is the second most frequent neurodegenerative disease, and its severity is increasing with extended life expectancy. Most of current treatments tend to rely on symptomatic relief and there are multiple trials for treatments that target the causes of the disease. The mechanisms underlying neurodegenerative diseases are intricate, and understanding the interplay among the biological elements involved is crucial. These relationships can be effectively analyzed through biological networks, and the application of network-based analyses in the context of neurodegenerative disease treatment has gained significant attention. Moreover, considering the significance differences in interactions between biological elements within the network is important. In this context, we introduce a novel biological pathway based edge-weighted network construction method for drug repurposing in Parkinson’s disease. The interaction found in multiple Parkinson’s disease-related pathways have more significance than other interactions, and this significance is reflected in the network edge weights. Using the edge-weighted network construction method, we found a significant difference in the efficacy between known and unknown Parkinson’s disease drugs. The method predicts drug-disease interactions more accurately than approaches that do not consider the significance differences among interactions, and the paths between the drug and disease within the network correspond to the drug’s mechanism of action. In summary, we propose a network-based drug repurposing method using the biological pathway based edge-weighted network.
A high-resolution spatial map of cilia-associated proteins based on characterization of the human fallopian tube-specific proteome
Authors: Lindskog Cecilia , Norradin Feria Hikmet , Digre Andreas , Méar Loren , Schutten Rutger , Lundberg Emma , Hansen Jan , Uhlén Mathias
Published: February 2024

Molecular changes in the fallopian tubes (FT) play a crucial role in the development of cancer and reproductive disorders. Here, we aimed to map key FT proteins on the single-cell level utilizing an integrated transcriptomics and proteomics approach. Based on RNA-seq, 315 genes were identified as elevated in FT, out of which a majority were associated with motile cilia function. An in-depth spatial characterization was performed for 130 of these genes in FT and other human tissues with motile cilia, localizing the proteins to different subcellular structures of ciliated cells. The specificity for ciliated cells was validated with single-cell RNA-seq and in-situ mass-spectrometry data. Our approach enabled us to identify 34 novel cilia-related proteins lacking previous evidence on the protein level, as well as several other proteins not described in the context of cilia biology. The high-resolution spatial map aids in further disentangling pathways involved in infertility and diseases linked to cilia-specific functions.