bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Midterm Wrapper: Quasi-Experimental Evidence of an Effective Performance Intervention
Authors: Cathey Christie , Needy Lydia , Hoogland Charles
Published: August 2023

The current study examined the effectiveness of a midterm performance intervention designed to help Introductory Psychology students improve their study skills and course performance over the second half of the semester. The ‘midterm wrapper’, a self-reflective online performance intervention, asks students to engage actively with their midterm grade feedback by listing all scores that made up this grade, comparing their own past study strategies and academic habits to a list of effective strategies and habits and listing the study-related adjustments they plan to make for the second half of the semester. In a quasi-experiment, we compared 402 students who completed the midterm wrapper to 376 students who did not complete it on their post-midterm course performance. As hypothesized, controlling for pre-midterm performance, students who completed the midterm wrapper assignment scored higher on all post-midterm exams, completed more post-midterm homework assignments and ended the course with higher final grades than those who did not complete the assignment. The midterm wrapper takes little time on the part of instructors or students, but it is an effective means of encouraging students to reflect on their past performance and make necessary adjustments in time to improve their overall course performance.
Regulating the Privately Rented Sector: what can universities offer to support local authority workforce development?
Authors: Stewart Jill , Jeavons Charlotte
Published: August 2023

The private rented sector (PRS) has grown in both quantity and complexity in recent years but the local authority workforce has not been able keep up with its regulation. There are insufficient numbers of Environmental Health Practitioners and other staff delivering interventions and new training opportunities are needed to address the backlog and deliver effective front line services. This paper reviews the current situation and overview the complexity of competencies and skills required and how this might be achieved going forward.
An optogenetic cell therapy to restore control of target muscles in an aggressive mouse model of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis
Authors: Bryson Barney , Kourgiantaki Alexandra , Jiang Dai , Demosthenous Andreas , Greensmith Linda
Published: August 2023

Breakdown of neuromuscular junctions (NMJs) is an early pathological hallmark of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) that blocks neuromuscular transmission, leading to muscle weakness, paralysis and, ultimately, premature death. Currently, no therapies exist that can prevent progressive motor neuron degeneration, muscle denervation or paralysis in ALS. Here, we report important advances in the development of an optogenetic, neural replacement strategy that can effectively restore innervation of severely affected skeletal muscles in the aggressive SOD1G93A mouse model of ALS, thus providing an interface to selectively control the function of targeted muscles using optical stimulation. We also identify a specific approach to confer complete survival of allogeneic replacement motor neurons. Furthermore, we demonstrate that an optical stimulation training paradigm can prevent atrophy of reinnervated muscle fibers and results in a 10-fold increase in optically-evoked contractile force. Together, these advances pave the way for an assistive therapy that could benefit all ALS patients.
Seasonal Dynamics of Carabid Beetles (Coleoptera : Carabidae) in Areas with Anthropogenic Disturbance. The Case of Uzungwa Scarp Nature Forest
Authors: Mwambala Anna , Nyundo Bruno
Published: August 2023

Seasonal variation in diversity and community composition of ground beetles was investigated in the Uzungwa Scarp Nature Forest Reserve (USNFR), Tanzania. Carabid beetles were collected using three methods, namely pitfall traps, active day search and active night searching. Sampling of ground beetles was carried out in three seasons: dry season, wet season, and end of dry season in 2016, 2018 and 2019. Results showed that the diversity of ground beetles was highest during the wet season (Shannon-Wiener H' = 2.19) and lowest at the end of the dry season (H' = 1.83). The difference was statistically significant when comparing the end of dry season against the wet season, and between wet and dry season (t = 5.85 and 4.88, respectively, p < 0.05). Species richness was highest during the wet season and the difference was statistically significant among the three seasons (χ2 = 13.46, p < 0.05). Abundance was highest during the wet season, with mean number of carabid beetles 1.256 ± 0.08 per sample, and lowest at the end of dry season (0.48 ± 0.05 individuals per sample). Kruskal-Wallis test revealed that the difference in abundance among the three seasons was statistically significant (H = 128.3, p < 0.05). Bray- Curtis similarity index showed low similarity in community composition among all three seasons. We conclude that ground beetles communities in anthropogenically disturbed areas vary with season, therefore to have a comprehensive sampling of ground beetles, sampling should cover at least one-year involving different seasons of the year.
Germination response of the freshwater invasive Iris pseudacorus to brackish and marine salinity as well as implications for coastal invasion
Authors: Thomson Hanna , Shackelford Nancy , Gilbert Miranda , Gerwing Travis
Published: August 2023

Conventionally considered a freshwater species, evidence indicates that yellow flag iris (Iris pseudacorus) tolerates saline conditions. As a water-dispersed species, clarifying how I. pseudacorus seeds respond to seawater immersion is critical to understanding marine dispersal and invasion risk for coastal habitat. Using seeds from marine and freshwater I. pseudacorus populations, we assessed how the duration of immersion (15, 30, 60, and 90 days) in varying salinities (0, 13–15, 33–35 practical salinity units) affected the germination response of seeds, and whether immersion in freshwater following saline exposure impacted germination success or seed viability. Freshwater-produced seeds consistently outperformed those produced by plants persisting in marine conditions. Neither salinity concentration nor duration of immersion had a statistically significant impact on germination success. Exposure to saline conditions fully inhibited germination unless seeds received a freshwater recovery. Seed coat thickness was statistically significantly greater among the freshwater population, but there was no discernible difference in mean seed weight. Seeds from both populations remained viable following prolonged exposure to salinity. We posit that observed differences in germination between the two populations may arise from dormancy mechanisms rather than seed fitness. Overall, our results suggest that I. pseudacorus has the capacity to disperse vast distances through the marine environment, potentially habitat-hopping to reach ecosystems characterized by freshwater input, such as estuaries or saltmarshes. Management efforts should target early detection of the species in freshwater-enriched coastal habitats and react rapidly to remove individuals before they become established.
Determining the Direct and Indirect Healthcare and Social Costs For Diabetic Retinopathy Management. A Systematic Review.
Authors: BENHAMZA MAWDDA , Dahlui Prof. Maznah , Ayu Prof. Mas
Published: August 2023

Diabetic retinopathy is a rapidly growing a global public health threat; it affects 1 in 3 people with diabetes and is still the leading cause of blindness among the working- age population. The management of diabetic retinopathy is becoming more advanced and effective but is highly expensive compared to other ocular diseases. Aim: To report direct medical, indirect medical and nonmedical costs of diabetic retinopathy in developed and developing countries through a systematic review. Methods: Related articles published in the PubMed, Google Scholar, and EMBASE electronic databases from 1985 to 2022 were identified using the key words direct medical and indirect medical and social costs of diabetic retinopathy. However, previous systematic reviews, abstracts, and case reports were excluded. Results: Only12 articles were eligible for the assessment of the economic burden of diabetes management and its complications. In Germany, the average cost from a social perspective was US$1,361.35 per patient and the average cost of DR from the GKV perspective was US$865.450 per patient in 2002. In India, the average annual direct cost was estimated to be US$19,089.072 and the indirect cost was US$105,857.136 in 2016. Discussion: Increasing the prevalence of DR leads to increased direct and indirect healthcare expenditures, in addition, increasing the severity of DR leads to increased expenditure as well. The most significant concern about DR is that it affects working age adults with irreversible blindness, especially in advanced stages. While the management and control are available and inexpensive. Conclusion: The enormous financial burden associated with DR expenses should be reconsidered, and the current screening and management programs should be revised to improve the quality and reduce the cost that is associated with DR to achieve the Sustainable Development Goal SDG (3), which ensures good health and well-being.
Seroprevalence of Immunoglobulin G against SARS-CoV-2 in Iran at National and Sub- National Levels: Population-based Sero-Epidemiological Data from STEPS Survey 2021
Authors: Azangou-Khyavy Mohammadreza , Ghasemi Erfan , Ebrahimi Narges , Rashidi Mohammad-Mahdi , Abbasi-Kangevari Mohsen , Ahmadi Naser , Khanali Javad , Kazemi Ameneh , Dilmaghani-Marand Arezou , Farzi Yosef , Yoosefi Moein , Abdolhamidi Elham , Moghimi Mana , Nasserinejad Maryam , Fattahi Nima , Azadnajafabad Sina , Alipour-Daroei Arefe , Rezaee Kamyar , Djalalinia Shirin , Rezaei Negar , Jamshidi Hamidreza , Farzadfar Farshad
Published: August 2023

PCR tests for COVID-19 have relatively low sensitivity and only symptomatic cases have been tested. Thus, a population-based seroprevalence study was necessary to determine the extent of missed cases. The objective of this study was to achieve a realistic infection rate in Iran and probe into some explanations behind being infected or not. In this population-based cross-sectional study, 27,874 adults aged more than 18 from 31 provinces from February to April 2021 were included. The seroprevalence of IgG against SARS-CoV-2 in Iran was 20.63% (19.71-21.56) and 16.25% (15.11-17.41) based on two different adjustments. The age-standardized seroprevalence was relatively high among Kurdistan [30.29% (26.04-34.55) and 28.31% (23-33.61)], and West Azarbayejan [29.33% (24.85-33.8) and 27.11% (21.52-32.68)]. Smoking, higher education, being underweight, male, and single were protective factors, and higher daily interactions was a risk for infection. It is evident that reported rates have been misleading. Furthermore, several intervenable factors can predict the risk of infection.
Delayed Reduction in Left Ventricular Outflow Tract Gradient After Endocardial Radiofrequency Ablation for Septal Hypertrophy In a Patient with Hypertrophic Obstructive Cardiomyopathy: A Case Report
Authors: Chu Hongshuo , Wei Zixiu , Zhong Peng , Zhu Ye , Hu Zerui , Ni Jingyuan , Wang Huayun
Published: August 2023

Background: Left ventricular outflow tract (LVOT) obstruction can cut down cardiac output in hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy (HOCM). Patients with HOCM who undergo successful endocardial radiofrequency ablation for septal hypertrophy (ERASH) usually present with quick relief of LVOT obstruction. However, a delayed reduction in the LVOT gradient after ERASH has never been reported previously.
Case Description: We present a case of a 79-year-old woman diagnosed with HOCM, characterized by diffuse thickening of the interventricular septum and systolic anterior motion (SAM) of the anterior mitral valve leaflet. And A result indicating a distance of less than 50 meters was observed during the 6-minute walk test. Considering less trauma, the patient underwent a successful ERASH procedure with the assistance of CARTO3 and CARTOSOUND system. The ablation was performed at a power of 50 W and a temperature of 30℃. During the procedure, we observed the disappearance of SAM and a rapid reduction in the LVOT gradient from 93 mmHg to 43 mmHg. The patient exhibited a progressive enhancement in exercise capacity, accompanied by the absence of any symptoms. Transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) revealed a delayed reduction LVOT gradient during the follow-up assessments.
Conclusions: The delayed reduction of LVOT gradient possibly induced by the post-ablation myocardial edema and no significant adverse effect on prognosis was observed. Further investigations are warranted to explore the potential impact of high ablation power and precautionary measures.
Randomized phase II study of preoperative Afatinib in untreated head and neck cancers: predictive and pharmacodynamic biomarkers of efficacy
Authors: Marret Grégoire , Temam Stéphane , Kamal Maud , Even Caroline , Delord Jean-Pierre , Hoffmann Caroline , Dolivet Gilles , Malard Olivier , Fayette Jérôme , Capitain Olivier , Vergez Sébastien , Geoffrois Lionel , Rolland Frédéric , Zrounba Philippe , Laccourreye Laurent , Saada-Bouzid Esma , Aide Nicolas , Bénavent Valérie , Klijianienko Jerzy , Lamy Constance , Girard Elodie , Vacher Sophie , Masliah-Planchon Julien , de Koning Leanne , Puard Vincent , Borcoman Edith , Jimenez Marta , Bièche Ivan , Gal Jocelyn , Tourneau Christophe Le
Published: August 2023

There is no strong and reliable predictive biomarker in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) for EGFR inhibitors. We aimed to identify predictive and pharmacodynamic biomarkers of efficacy of afatinib, a pan-HER tyrosine kinase inhibitor, in a window-of-opportunity trial (NCT01415674). Multi-omics analyses were carried out on pre-treatment biopsy and surgical specimen for biological assessment of afatinib activity. Sixty-one treatment-naïve and operable HNSCC patients were randomised to afatinib 40 mg/day for 21–28 days versus no treatment. Afatinib produced a high rate of metabolic response. Responders had a higher expression of pERK1/2 (P = 0.02) and lower expressions of pHER4 (P = 0.03) and pRB1 (P = 0.002) in pre-treatment biopsy compared to non-responders. At the cellular level, responders displayed an enrichment of tumor-infiltrating B cells under afatinib (P = 0.02). At the molecular level, NF-kappa B signaling was over-represented among upregulated genes in non-responders (P < 0.001; FDR = 0.01). Although exploratory, phosphoproteomics-based biomarkers deserve further investigations as predictors of afatinib efficacy.
Clinical features and diagnostic approaches to chronic recurrent multifocal osteomyelitis: A retrospective study
Authors: Huang Jihuang , Zhu Tianfeng , Zhao Zhenhui , Tang Gen , Deng Hansheng , Tang Shengping , Xiong Zhu , Qiu Xin
Published: August 2023

Background: Chronic recurrent multifocal osteomyelitis (CRMO) is an autoinflammatory bone disease which is difficult to diagnose in the early stages. The aim of this study was to summarize the methods of diagnosis and differential diagnosis of CRMO, study diagnostic methods for early identification and diagnosis of the disease, and improve the ability of clinicians to identify and diagnose the disease at an early stage.
Methods: All children diagnosed with CRMO at our hospital between 2013 and 2022 were included. Clinical characteristics, imaging findings, and reasons for delayed diagnoses were summarized. In addition, the literature on CRMO from database establishment to February 1, 2023, was retrieved through Embase, Medline, and PubMed, and the management of CRMO was proposed based on the literature.
Results:
There were seven patients with CRMO (six males and one female). Mean age at first symptom: 6.3 (IQR 2.3-8.2) years; mean delay in diagnosis (from symptoms): 2.1 (IQR 1.2-2.8) years; mean age at relapse: 8.1 (IQR 3.2-12.1) years; mean disease duration: 3.8 (IQR 2.4-3.9) years. All children had local swelling and bone pain, and three patients had pathological fractures (one in the femur and two in the tibia). A total of 34 anatomical sites were involved in the lesions in seven children; one case had a single lesion, and six had multiple lesions. The blood and puncture tissue bacterial culture results in seven cases were negative, and the bone marrow cytology examination was normal.
A total of 119 clinical research reports on CRMO (1202 patients) were included, and it was found that the first symptom in 1142 cases (approximately 95%) was bone pain or local swelling. In all cases in which bacterial cultures of peripheral blood or bone tissue were performed, the results were negative. In addition, bone marrow cytology results were negative in 1178 (98%).
Conclusions: This study systematically summarized the clinical characteristics of patients with CRMO in our center and those reported in the literature. In addition, this study proposes primary and secondary diagnostic criteria for the management of CRMO, which requires verification.
A novel multi-criteria decision making model using Pythagorean fuzzy set and evolutionary algorithm for computational thinking assessment
Authors: Zhao Jingjie , Lei Yu , Luo Liang , Zhang Wei , Yi Baolin
Published: August 2023

Computational thinking (CT) is one of the essential skills for students in the 21st century, which has been widespread around the world. Therefore, the assessment of CT has become a hot topic. Increasing efforts to integrate CT assessment across all disciplinary backgrounds have lately progressed. The scale assessment is the most representative assessment tool. However, it cannot adequately reflect students’ preferences and ideas. The present study was aimed at proposing an improved scale-based assessment method, which could collect students’ fuzzy preferences with the support of Pythagorean fuzzy set (PFS). This method treats CT assessment as a multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) problem. In the PFS environment, the whale optimization algorithm (WOA) is used for criteria weight computation, and students’ CT along with five sub-abilities are classified into five levels using the adapted Vlse Kriterijumska Optimizacija I Kompromisno Resenje (VIKOR) method. A total of 24 eighth-grade students participated in the CT assessment. And the experimental results indicate the feasibility of the method. Two sensitivity analyses were conducted to verify the effectiveness of the model. Furthermore, a correlation analysis between the method, traditional scales method, and teacher evaluations also confirmed it.
Colonic stenosis in pediatric population: a retrospective study
Authors: Yan Xueqiang , Zheng Nannan , Lei Haiyan , Yuan Qiang , Qin Xinke , Duan Xufei , Chen Xuyong
Published: August 2023

Background
Colonic stenosis is a rare disease in pediatric populations, it may lead to a serious intestinal obstruction. Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) is one of the reasons that lead to the non-congenital colon stenosis. In the present study, we display our experience and findings for the pediatric colonic stenosis to explore the general feathers and outcomes of the colonic stenosis are essential for surgeons to make a better choice for individual therapy.
Methods
This is a retrospective study of patients who diagnosed as colonic stenosis from January 2018 to December 2022 at Wuhan children’s hospital. We divided the patients into the NEC group, suspected-NEC group and Non-NEC group. Patients clinical characteristics including symptoms, risk factors, surgical procedure, pathology, hospital stay and postoperative outcomes were collected and analyzed. Patients were followed up for 6 months to 2 years for any gastrointestinal symptoms. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS 28.0 software.
Results
Total of 30 patients was enrolled in this study. There were 16 patients in the NEC group, 7 patients in the suspected-NEC group, and 7 patients in Non-NEC group. The male to female ratio was higher in the NEC group. There was more premature infants in NEC group. The weight in NEC and suspected-NEC group was lower than Non-NEC group. There were more artificial feeding cases in NEC group. The hospital stay in NEC group was longer for the first administration. Next, we observed postoperation complications and found 2 patients had wound infection and 1 patient had adhesive ileus and 1 patient had anastomosis stenosis in NEC group, 1 patient had would infection in suspected-NEC group, and 1 patient had would infection in Non-NEC group. For follow up, 2 patients had intestinal obstruction and 3 patients had colitis in NEC group, 1 patient had bloody stool in suspected-NEC group, and 1 patient had an intestinal obstruction in Non-NEC group, all of them cured after conservative therapy.
Conclusions
Artificial feeding, NEC and bowel inflammation are the important risk factors for stenosis.
Unraveling the Challenges of Intravenous Leiomyomatosis: A Retrospective Analysis of 11 Cases
Authors: Wang Qun , Liu H , Feng Weiwei
Published: August 2023

Objective
This study provides a concise overview of diagnostic and treatment strategies for intravenous leiomyomatosis (IVL), a rare disease with nonspecific clinical manifestations, based on cases from a tertiary referral hospital in China.
Methods
We retrospectively analyzed 11 premenopausal patients with confirmed IVL between 2018 and 2022. Clinical data from Ultrasound, Enhanced CT, and MRI were studied, along with surgical details, postoperative pathology, and follow-up information.
Results
Premenopausal patients showed no disease-specific symptoms, with 90.9% having a history of gynecological or obstetric surgery, and 72.7% having prior uterine fibroids. Cardiac involvement was evident in two cases, with echocardiography detecting abnormal floating masses from the inferior vena cava. Pelvic ultrasound indicated leiomyoma in 90.9% of cases, with ≥ 50mm size. Surgery was the primary treatment, and lesions above the internal iliac vein resulted in significantly higher intraoperative blood loss (median 1300ml vs. 50ml, p = 0.005) and longer hospital stays (median 10 days vs. 4 days, p = 0.026). Three patients with lesions above the inferior vena cava required combined surgery with cardiac specialists. Recurrence occurred in 2 out of 11 patients with incomplete lesion resection.
Conclusions
IVL mainly affects premenopausal women with uterine masses, primarily in the pelvic cavity (Stage I). Pelvic ultrasound aids early screening, while Enhanced CT or MR assists in diagnosing and assessing venous lesions. Complete resection is crucial to prevent recurrence. Lesions invading the internal iliac vein and above pose higher risks during surgery. A multidisciplinary team approach is essential for patients with lesions above the inferior vena cava, with simultaneous surgery as a potential treatment option.
Artificial intelligence-based model for predicting pulmonary arterial hypertension on chest radiograph
Authors: Imai Shun , Sakao Seiichiro , Nagata Jun , Naito Akira , Sekine Ayumi , Sugiura Toshihiko , Shigeta Ayako , Nishiyama Akira , Yokota Hajime , Shimizu Norihiro , Sugawara Takeshi , Nomi Toshiaki , Honda Seiwa , Ogaki Keisuke , Tanabe Nobuhiro , Baba Takayuki , Suzuki Takuji
Published: August 2023

Background
Pulmonary arterial hypertension is a severe condition. Despite advances in targeted treatments for it, diagnostic delays have yet to improve. Early referral to a specialized hospital is important because a longer diagnostic interval has been reported to be associated with decreased 5-year survival. Computer-aided detection and diagnosis (CAD) support detecting and diagnosing abnormalities and diseases. In this study, we developed and tested a deep-learning algorithm to detect pulmonary arterial hypertension using chest radiographs.
Methods
From the image archive of Chiba University Hospital, 259 chest radiographs from 145 patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension PAH and 260 radiographs from 260 control patients were identified; 418 were used for training, and 101 were used for testing. Using the testing dataset for each image, the algorithm outputted a numerical value from zero to one (the probability of the pulmonary arterial hypertension score). In addition, using the same testing dataset, the capability of the algorithm to identify pulmonary arterial hypertension was compared with that of professional doctors.
Results
The area under the curve of the receiver operating characteristic curve for the detection ability of the algorithm was 0.988. Using a score cutoff of 0.69, the sensitivity and specificity of the algorithm were 0.933 and 0.982, respectively. The performance of the algorithm was not inferior to that of the doctors.
Conclusion
We developed a deep-learning algorithm to detect pulmonary arterial hypertension using chest radiographs.
Efficacy of pancreatic dissection with a triple-row stapler in laparoscopic distal pancreatectomy: a retrospective observational study
Authors: Izumi Hideki , Yoshii Hisamichi , Fujino Rika , Takeo Shigeya , Nomura Eiji , Mukai Masaya , Makuuchi Hiroyasu
Published: August 2023

Background
Postoperative pancreatic fistulas (POPFs) occur after 20–30% of laparoscopic distal pancreatectomies and can have serious consequences. This study aimed to evaluate the clinical efficacy of laparoscopic distal pancreatectomy using a triple-row stapler for preventing POPF.
Methods
Between April 2016 and May 2023, 59 patients underwent complete laparoscopic distal pancreatectomies. There were more females (n = 34, 57.6%) than males (n = 25, 42.4%). The median age of the patients was 68.9 years. The patients were divided into slow-compression and no-compression groups and examined for pancreatic leakage. Both groups were examined with respect to age, sex, body mass index (BMI), pancreatic thickness at the pancreatic dissection site, pancreatic texture, diagnosis, operative time, blood loss, presence of POPF, date of drain removal, and length of hospital stay. In addition, risk factors for POPF were examined in a multivariate analysis.
Results
Grade B POPFs were found in 9 patients (15.3%). The slow-compression and no-compression groups included 19 and 40 patients, respectively. Univariate analysis showed that the operative time, blood loss, postoperative pancreatic fluid leakage, day of drain removal, and hospital stay were lower in the no-compression group than in the slow-compression group. The no-compression group was older than the slow-compression group. In the multivariate analysis, the absence of POPF was significantly more frequent in the no-compression group (odds ratio,5.69; 95% confidence interval, 1.241–26.109; p = 0.025).
Conclusions
The no-compression pancreatic dissection method is a simple method for reducing POPF incidence.
WITHDRAWN: Integrating Prior Knowledge and Data-Driven Approaches for Improving Grapheme-to-Phoneme Conversion in Korean Language
Authors: Cao Dezhi , Zhao Y , Wu Licheng
Published: August 2023

Currently, grapheme-to-phoneme (G2P) conversion technology is dominated by two methodologies: knowledge-based and data-based approaches. Knowledge-driven methods face challenges in adapting to extensive datasets, while data-driven methods heavily rely on high-quality data and require precise feature selection for model construction. To overcome these challenges, this research proposes an integrated approach that combines prior knowledge with data-driven techniques for automatic G2P conversion in the Korean language. We extract attributes based on pronunciation rules and phonetic transformations between Korean words to construct a decision tree. Subsequently, the model is trained using the data-driven approach for automated phonetic transcription. The proposed model achieves more accurate alignment between input and output variables, effectively capturing phonological variations in continuous Korean speech and determining corresponding phonemes for graphemes. Rigorous cross-validation confirms its superiority, with an average accuracy of 94.63% in grapheme-to-phoneme conversion, outperforming existing methodologies.
Islr regulates satellite cells asymmetric division through the SPARC/p-ERK1/2 signaling pathway
Authors: liu fan , Wang Xiong , Zhang Kuo , Su Yang , Cao Yuxin , Meng Qingyong
Published: August 2023

Satellite cells (SCs) are adult muscle stem cells responsible for muscle regeneration after acute and chronic muscle injuries. The balance between stem cell self-renewal and differentiation determines the kinetics and efficiency of skeletal muscle regeneration. This study assessed the function of Islr in SC asymmetric division. The deletion of Islr reduced muscle regeneration in adult mice by decreasing the SC pool. Islr is pivotal for SC proliferation, and its deletion promoted the asymmetric division of SCs. A mechanistic search revealed that Islr bound to and stabilized secreted protein acidic and rich in cysteine (SPARC), which activated p-ERK1/2 signaling required for asymmetric division. These findings demonstrate that Islr is a key regulator of SC division through the SPARC/p-ERK1/2 signaling pathway. These data provide a basis for treating myopathy.
Care providers’ perception of artificial intelligence: focus on workload, risk, trust, clinical decision-making, and clinical integration.
Authors: Shamszare Hamid , Choudhury Avishek
Published: August 2023

Despite the widespread use of AI systems in various industries, the sensitivity of human life presents a challenge for healthcare practitioners to realize the potential of AI in clinical settings fully. To address this challenge, this study investigated the factors contributing to the dynamic relationship between AI and clinicians using structural equation modeling. The considered factors were clinicians’ trust in AI, their perception of AI risk and workload, and its impact on clinical decision-making. The findings indicate that AI's ability to reduce workload positively impacts trust, while the perception of AI risk does not significantly impact trust. Also, the results showed that reduced workload and increased trust in AI positively impact the perception of AI-driven clinical decision-making. In contrast, a higher perception of AI risk is negatively related to the perception of AI-driven clinical decision-making. The findings of this study provided pathways for future research and recommendation on factors influencing AI utilization in clinical settings. The study also proposes a better way to integrate AI into clinical workflows that is more likely to improve trust in the technology and subsequent clinical decision-making.
Adjunction of doxazosin before ureterolithotripsy for improving successful access rate, a retrospective analysis
Authors: Wang Xinning , Xu Shang , Yan Yongchao , Zhang Tianwei , Liu Yunbo , Li Bin , Cao Yuanchao , Jiao Wei
Published: August 2023

Introduction To evaluate efciency and safety of adjunct doxazosin therapy before semi-rigid ureteroscopy and RIRS for urinary stones.
Method We respectively analysis the data of patients who underwent semi-rigid ureterosocpy and RIRS. The patients were divided into four group: patient underwent semi-rigid ureterosocpy with or without doxazosin per-surgery; patients underwent RIRS with or without doxazosin per-surgery. The following information was analysis for each patient: age; gender; stone’s laterality, location, and maximal diameter; successful access rate; and surgery complications.
Result Total of 246 patients were concluded in the fnal analysis. Mean age, gender, laterality, stone’s laterality, location and maximal diameter were similar among each groups. The successful rate of patients underwent semi-rigid ureterosocpy with doxazosin 5 days per-surgery was 95% when was 79.69% of pateints without doxazosin. And the successful rate of patients underwent RIRS with doxazosin 5 days per-surgery was 84.09% and when was 57.41% of pateints without doxazosin. Duration of double-J stent post-surgery and complication rates were similar among groups.
Conclusion Doxazosin could be used safely and effectively before both semi-rigid and flexible ureteroscopy.
Secure Color Image Encryption using OpticalTransformations
Authors: Bajpai Abhishek , Yadav Shruti , Katiyar Devesh
Published: August 2023

This study presents a novel approach for encoding and decoding colour imagesby combining the Arnold Transform, Discrete Wavelet Transform (DWT),Singular Value Decomposition (SVD), and the fast walk Hadamard transform(FWHT) process. The encoding process involves using clusters of Arnold keysand wavelets, along with singular values of wavelet subbands. The specific calculationsof all wavelet subbands determine the number of Arnold keys and theparameters of the fast wavelet Hadamard transform. To evaluate the effectivenessand robustness of the proposed technique, the average squared deviationand the ratio of the peak signal power to the power of the noise are used. Theresults show that energy is conserved when employing fast Walsh Hadamardtransforms, and the encrypted image can be compressed effectively. Thus, thismethod offers a secure and efficient approach for transmitting colour imagesover both secure and unreliable communication channels.
Hypertension associated with functional status early after hospitalization for ischemic stroke: A cohort study
Authors: Pudlo Megan , Coté Kathryn , Jost-Price Emma , Leung Lester
Published: August 2023

Background
Permissive hypertension in the hyperacute phase of acute ischemic stroke (AIS) is an accepted standard of care; optimal strategies for hypertension management among patients in the post-acute care phase are unknown. This study aimed to identify the association of hypertension management on functional outcomes during the post-acute care phase.
Methods
This retrospective cohort study at a comprehensive stroke center included adults age ≥ 18 with a primary diagnosis of AIS who were discharged to home or an inpatient rehabilitation facility (IRF). The primary outcome was functional improvement defined as an increase of modified Rankin Scale (mRS) by 1 or more point between discharge and follow-up. Univariate analyses with the Chi-square test and t-test assessed differences between baseline characteristics between the home and IRF groups. Covariates and functional improvement associations were assessed with multivariable logistic regression.
Results
Patients with hypertension discharged to IRF had a higher odds of no functional improvement between hospital discharge and clinic follow-up (OR 2.53, 95% CI: 1.02-6.59) compared to those without hypertension. Patients discharged to IRF prescribed any antihypertensives had a higher odds of no functional improvement (OR 2.36, 95% CI 1.08-5.34) compared to those not prescribed antihypertensives.
Conclusions
Patients with a hypertension diagnosis discharged to IRF after AIS are less likely to have functional improvement compared to patients discharged home which may be associated with the prescription of antihypertensive medications.
Traceability tagging of volatile organic compound sources and their contributions to ozone formation in Suzhou using vehicle-based portable single photon ionization mass spectrometry
Authors: Shuaibu Nazifi Sani , Chu Fengjian , Ismail Balarabe B. , Yu Peng , Zhao Gaosheng , Ibrahim Ammar Muhammad , Indabawa Musbahu Garba , Abdalmohammed S.A.A. Abdalmohammed , Wang Xiaozhi
Published: August 2023

Over the past few decades, the issue of atmospheric volatile organic compounds (VOCs) has garnered escalating global concern. Given that VOCs constitute significant pollutants and pivotal ozone (O3) precursors in both urban and industrial regions, delineating and quantifying their sources of emission stands as a fundamental requirement for devising and executing environmental control strategies. A mobile laboratory vehicle, equipped with a single photon ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometer (SPI-TOFMS) and a navigation system, was employed to tag the traceability of VOCs that contribute to O3 formation in Suzhou industrial park. The method exhibited a good method detection limit of 0.29 µgm-3, a mass resolution of the instrument was1500, and a correlation coefficient of 0.994. A positive matrix factorization (PMF) model was used for the VOCs source appointment. Three primary VOC source profiles were discerned: vehicular emissions, an industrial solvent, and biofuel combustion. These sources were recognized as the principal contributors to the pollution in the Suzhou. The successful utilization of SPI-TOFMS demonstrated a promising technique viable for conducting real-time and online monitoring of atmospheric VOCs. Moreover, an identification library of VOCs fingerprints from the same plant was established. This library serves as a precise point of reference for on-site VOC traceability, source apportionment estimation, and assessment of their contribution to ozone formation.
The Impacts of L-arginine on Biochemical Parameters and Oxidative Stress in Rats Exposed to Subacute Imidacloprid Toxicity
Authors: Akande Motunrayo , Adefioye Adesewa , Fabowale Oreoluwa , Akumka David , Ejeh Augustine
Published: August 2023

The purpose of the research was to assess the impacts of L-arginine (AR) on some biochemical indices and oxidative stress in male Wistar rats exposed to imidacloprid (IM) toxicity. Forty rats were used and they were randomly assigned to four groups. They received the treatments once daily by oral gavage for 14 days as follows: distilled water [DW group], imidacloprid (71 mg/kg) (IM group), imidacloprid (71 mg/kg) and L-arginine (100 mg/kg) [IM + AR100 group], imidacloprid (71 mg/kg) and L-arginine (200 mg/kg) [IM + AR200 group]. The rats were sacrificed after the study ended and the levels of serum proteins, urea and creatinine, oxidative stress parameters, as well as the activities of serum enzymes, were estimated. Significant reductions were recorded in the total protein concentrations of the IM and IM + AR100 groups relative to that of the DW group, respectively. Also, substantial declines were observed in the globulin levels of the IM and IM + AR100 groups compared to that of the DW and IM + AR200 groups respectively. There were significant elevations in the aspartate aminotransferase (IM, IM + AR100 and IM + AR200 groups) and creatinine (IM group) levels relative to that of the DW group correspondingly. Moreover, significant reductions were recorded in the activities of hepatic catalase and renal superoxide dismutase of the IM group compared to that of the IM + AR200 group respectively. It can be deduced that IM appreciably disrupted some serum biochemical indices probably through the induction of oxidative stress, while AR alleviated the undesirable effects of IM particularly at 200 mg/kg, perhaps through its antioxidant and bioprotective properties.
Exploration of Resistance Level in Different Cultivars of Potato to Black Scurf Casued by Rozactonia Solani
Authors: Rafiq Muhammad , Shoaib Amna , Javaid Arshad , Perveen Shagufta
Published: August 2023

Black Scurf is one of the destructive fungal diseases of potato crops caused by fungus Rhizoctonia solani. Cultural practices and fungicide applications are insufficient in effectively combating the pathogen, while utilizing resistant cultivars has become one of the most economical and effective way to control disease. About ten commercial potato varieties were screened out against the disease by artificially inoculating the plants with R. solani and these potato varieties were grouped based on disease incidence and disease severity. Four varieties (Ronoldo, Rubi, Challenge, and Sadaf) were grouped as resistant, three varieties (SH-5, Sante and Astrex) as moderately susceptible and three varieties (Karoda, Mosica and Simply red) as susceptible with significantly highest disease incidence ( P ≤ 0.05). Disease also reduced number and size of tubers, while the disease incidence showed negative (P < 0.001) correlation with chlorophyll and protein contents, and activities of catalase (CAT), peroxidase (POX) and polyphenol oxidase (PPO) enzymes. It was concluded that a combination of phenotypic and physiological indices could be used to identify black scurf resistance in potatoes.
4D evolutions of cracks, voids, and corrosion products in reinforced concrete materials
Authors: Taheri-Shakib Jaber , Al-Mayah Adil
Published: August 2023

This research paper presents a comprehensive investigation into the corrosion process in reinforced concrete structures using advanced analytical techniques, namely X-ray computed tomography (CT) imaging, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images, energy dispersive x-ray spectrometry (EDS), and Raman spectroscopy. The CT image analysis allowed for the identification and quantification of pore structures, crack propagation, and corrosion progression at different stages of corrosion. CT scanning and data analysis offer valuable 4D (3D spatial + time) insights into corrosion in reinforced concrete, revealing changes in pore sizes, with smaller pores increasing and larger pores decreasing as corrosion progresses. Our investigation reveals dynamic changes in reinforced concrete pores during the accelerated corrosion test leading to new pore formation and cracking. The research identifies two distinct types of cracks: one filled with corrosion products and the other, zipper-like cracks, resulting from the connection of deformed pores without corrosion products. The SEM images and EDS analysis confirmed the absence of corrosion products within these unique zipper cracks, suggesting a different mechanism of crack formation compared to the first type of cracks. The results revealed two distinct categories of corrosion products: iron oxides and iron hydroxides, with their distribution correlated to the duration of accelerated corrosion testing. The integration and verification of results from X-ray CT imaging and Raman spectroscopy established a comprehensive understanding of corrosion-induced damage in the reinforced concrete specimen, shedding light on complex interactions among different corrosion products during the corrosion process. These findings offer crucial insights for enhancing the design and maintenance of concrete structures to mitigate corrosion-related challenges.
The effect, Mechanism and Influencing Factors of Concurrent Strength and Endurance Training With Different Sequences
Authors: Zhang Feng , Moritz Schumann , Lin Jianjian , Tian Haonan , Jun Wang
Published: August 2023

Objective: To investigate the effects of concurrent training with different sequences on improving strength and endurance performance and the underlying molecular biological mechanisms.
Methods: Using the literature method, reading and summarizing the relevant literature, Starting from the effect of concurrent training with different sequences on improving strength and endurance, and attempting to explore the deep mechanism from the neuromuscular and molecular biological adaptation, and putting forward the influencing factors of the concurrent training effects with a different sequence. The results showed that most studies have confirmed that the correlation between endurance improvement and training sequence is insignificant. However, the "interference effect" of different training sequences on strength is a matter of debate. The endurance-strength training model is more conducive to skeletal muscle protein synthesis, promoting skeletal muscle hypertrophy and maximal strength; the strength-endurance training sequence is more likely to result in improved neuroadaptations and relative strength and explosive power output.
Suggestion: Rationalizing the training sequence based on training goals and individual subject differences; when the endurance-strength training model is selected, an interval of more than 3 hours is recommended to prevent acute interferences between the molecules.
Relentless bilateral occlusive vasculitis in a patient with Crohn’s disease treated with adalimumab after immunization with mRNA SARS-CoV-2 vaccine: a case report
Authors: Bughin Alice , Casanova Alex , Ribi Camillo , Guex-Crosier Yan
Published: August 2023

Background: To report a case of bilateral rapidly progressive visual loss in a patient with long-standing Crohn's disease treated with a TNF blocking agent for 4 months who received a second SARS-CoV-2 mRNA dose 7 weeks before onset.
Case presentation: A 26-year-old female with a 5-year history of Crohn’s disease was treated with adalimumab (Humira®) bimonthly from March 2021 to the end of July 2021. She received a first dose of mRNA-1273 COVID-19 vaccine (Moderna®) on April 14th, 2021, and a second dose was given on May 18th, 2021. Forty-nine days after the second dose, she complained of a central scotoma in her right eye. Her ophthalmologist noticed bilateral subretinal fluid associated with mild vasculitis on angiography. She was treated with 50 mg/day of oral prednisone and then substituted two days later by acetazolamide 250 mg/day when she was referred to an uveitis specialist in the city.
Visual acuity worsened, and she was hospitalized from July 29th to August 4th, 2021, for bilateral panuveitis with severe vasculitis. She received five days of 500 mg/day intravenous methylprednisolone, followed by oral prednisone 1.5 mg/kg/day plus 1200 mg/day intravenous acyclovir and 100 mg/day acetylsalicylic acid. Adalimumab was switched to infliximab (Inflectra®).
When she was first seen at Jules-Gonin Eye Hospital on November 4, 2021, the visual acuity was reduced to light perception in both eyes (OU). Fundus examination revealed bilateral honeycomb macular atrophy and multiple peripheral focal lesions with massive retinal ischemia. Optic disc atrophy was present in the OU. Ocular infections were ruled out by an anterior chamber tap puncture and multiple serologies, including tropical infections. Antiphospholipid antibodies were repeatedly negative. There were no signs of systemic involvement, and Crohn's disease was inactive.
For corticosteroid sparing, weekly injections of tocilizumab were performed for one year from 6th December 2021, and corticosteroids were progressively tapered to 7.5 mg/day in January 2023.
Conclusions: This case study depicts a doomed visual fate in a young woman. Several hypotheses have been raised about the pathogenesis of the disease: either an autoimmune process with massive vascular occlusive disease, a reaction to biologic agent (adalimumab) injections or a boost of ocular inflammation after COVID-19 vaccination.