bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Individual differences in parasympathetic functioning across social stressor tasks: Relations with child and parent anxiety
Authors: Bui Hong N. T. , Chronis‐Tuscano Andrea , Shakiba Nila , Rubin Kenneth H. , Perlstein Samantha , Lorenzo Nicole E. , Novick Danielle R. , Danko Christina M. , Dougherty Lea R. , Wagner Nicholas J.
Published: October 2024

Children with elevated behavioural inhibition (BI) show context‐inappropriate fear and dysregulated RSA across stressor tasks. However, few studies have examined dynamic RSA within tasks and relations to parent and child anxiety. Using piecewise growth modelling and multimethod baseline data from an intervention study of 151 3.5–5‐year‐old children and their parents, we examined relations between child social anxiety (SA), parent anxiety and their interaction in predicting children's RSA across social stressor tasks (e.g. learning about unfamiliar peers, Trier Social Stress). Within the sample, 49.63% of children were reported to be White, non‐Hispanic/Latine (n = 67), 22% multiracial (n = 31), 14.81% Asian/Pacific Islander (n = 20) and 12.59% Black/African‐American (n = 17). Furthermore, 64.44% of the parents were reported to be White, non‐Hispanic/Latine (n = 87), 20% Asian/Pacific Islander (n = 27), 13.33% Black/African‐American (n = 18) and 2.22% multiracial (n = 3). Children showed differentiated RSA reactivity and recovery within an anticipatory social learning task based on their level of clinically appraised SA. Relations between child SA and RSA across tasks was moderated by parent anxiety, specifically for dyads matched in anxiety. Findings provide support for the potential influence of both child and parent anxiety on children's parasympathetic nervous system (PNS) responses across specific self‐regulatory tasks.
Toxicokinetic Profiles and Potential Endocrine Disruption Effects at the Reproductive Level Promoted by Siloxanes Used in Consumer Products
Authors: Marrugo‐Padilla Albeiro , Atencio‐Diaz Aylin Berussa , Barros‐Domínguez Maria Fernanda , Guerra‐Rivadeneira Jose Daniel , Hernandez‐Cuesta Laura Valentina , Viloria‐Gamez Leandra Marcela
Published: October 2024

Siloxanes, commonly known as silicones, are polymeric compounds made up of silicon and oxygen atoms bonded together alternately. Within this group of substances are linear methyl‐siloxanes and cyclic methyl‐siloxanes, with octamethylcyclotetrasiloxane (D4) and decamethylcyclopentasiloxane (D5) being the most produced and used industrially. Due to their versatility, high production volume, stability, and local presence in environmental matrices and biological fluids such as breast milk, fat, and plasma, siloxanes have been considered persistent organic pollutants, representing a public health problem. This represents a public health concern, especially when different investigations have reported potential endocrine effects at the reproductive level in experimental animals exposed to D4 and D5. The objective of this study was to review the potential reproductive and endocrine effects derived from siloxanes present in personal care products (PCPs). The results of the literature review confirmed that D4 and D5 were the most used siloxanes as additives in PCP because they improve the emollient properties of the cosmetic and the physical appearance of hair and skin. Similarly the toxicological effects of siloxanes, particularly D4, D5, and D6 included significant endocrine disruption, reproductive toxicity, and liver toxicity. Studies in SD and F‐344 rats, commonly used to assess these effects, have shown that D4 has low estrogenic activity, binding to ER‐α receptors, whereas D5 does not bind to estrogen receptors. D4 exposure has been associated with increased uterine weight and estrous cycle alterations, leading to prolonged exposure to estrogens, which raises the risk of endometrial hyperproliferation and carcinogenesis. Recent research highlights that D5 exposure disrupts follicle growth, endometrial receptivity, and steroidogenesis, resulting in infertility and hormonal imbalances, potentially causing disorders like endometriosis and increased cancer risk. Chronic exposure to D5 has been linked to the development of uterine endometrial adenocarcinoma, with higher doses further elevating this risk.
Small RNAs in plasma extracellular vesicles define biomarkers of premanifest changes in Huntington's disease
Authors: Herrero‐Lorenzo Marina , Pérez‐Pérez Jesús , Escaramís Georgia , Martínez‐Horta Saül , Pérez‐González Rocío , Rivas‐Asensio Elisa , Kulisevsky Jaime , Gámez‐Valero Ana , Martí Eulàlia
Published: October 2024

Despite the advances in the understanding of Huntington's disease (HD), there is a need for molecular biomarkers to categorize mutation carriers during the preclinical stage of the disease preceding functional decline. Small RNAs (sRNAs) are a promising source of biomarkers since their expression levels are highly sensitive to pathobiological processes. Here, using an optimized method for plasma extracellular vesicles (EVs) purification and an exhaustive analysis pipeline of sRNA sequencing data, we show that EV‐sRNAs are downregulated early in mutation carriers and that this deregulation is associated with premanifest cognitive performance. Seven candidate sRNAs (tRF‐Glu‐CTC, tRF‐Gly‐GCC, miR‐451a, miR‐21‐5p, miR‐26a‐5p, miR‐27a‐3p and let7a‐5p) were validated in additional subjects, showing a significant diagnostic accuracy at premanifest stages. Of these, miR‐21‐5p was significantly decreased over time in a longitudinal study; and miR‐21‐5p and miR‐26a‐5p levels correlated with cognitive changes in the premanifest cohort. In summary, the present results suggest that deregulated plasma EV‐sRNAs define an early biosignature in mutation carriers with specific species highlighting the progression and cognitive changes occurring at the premanifest stage.
Switchover phenomenon for general graphs
Authors: Keliger Dániel , Lovász László , Móri Tamás Ferenc , Ódor Gergely
Published: October 2024

We study SIR‐type epidemics (susceptible‐infected‐resistant) on graphs in two scenarios: (i) when the initial infections start from a well‐connected central region and (ii) when initial infections are distributed uniformly. Previously, Ódor et al. demonstrated on a few random graph models that the expectation of the total number of infections undergoes a switchover phenomenon; the central region is more dangerous for small infection rates, while for large rates, the uniform seeding is expected to infect more nodes. We rigorously prove this claim under mild, deterministic assumptions on the underlying graph. If we further assume that the central region has a large enough expansion, the second moment of the degree distribution is bounded and the number of initial infections is comparable to the number of vertices, the difference between the two scenarios is shown to be macroscopic.
Functional evaluation of TMEM176B and its predictive role for severe respiratory viral infection through integrated analysis of single‐cell and bulk RNA‐sequencing
Authors: Shang Congcong , Yu Jiapei , Zou Shumei , Li Hui , Cao Bin ,   for the CAP‐China network
Published: October 2024

Transmembrane protein 176B (TMEM176B), localized mainly on the endosomal membrane, has been reported as an immune regulatory factor in malignant diseases. However, the biological function of this molecule remains undetermined during respiratory viral infections. To investigate the functions and prognostic value of this gene, six gene sets were selected from the Gene Expression Omnibus database for research. First, the function of TMEM176B and its co‐expressed genes were evaluated at different levels (cell, peripheral blood, lung tissue). Afterwards, a machine learning algorithm was utilized to analyze the relationship between TMEM176B and its interacting genes with prognosis. After importance evaluation and variable screening, a prognostic model was established. Finally, the reliability of the model was further verified through external data sets. In vitro experiments were conducted to validate the function of TMEM176B. TMEM176B and its co‐expressed genes are involved in multiple processes such as inflammasome activation, myeloid immune cell development, and immune cell infiltration. Machine learning further screened 27 interacting gene modules including TMEM176B as prognostic models for severe respiratory viral infections, with the area under the ROC curve (AUCs) of 0.986 and 0.905 in derivation and external validation sets, respectively. We further confirmed that viral load as well as NLRP3 activation and cell death were significantly enhanced in TMEM176B‐/‐ THP‐1‐differentiated macrophages via in vitro experiments. Our study revealed that TMEM176B is involved in a wide range of biological functions in respiratory viral infections and has potential prognostic value, which is expected to bring new insights into the clinical management of severe respiratory viral infection hosts.
Comparison of indicators to evaluate the performance of climate models
Authors: Gómez Mario J. , Barboza Luis A. , Hidalgo Hugo G. , Alfaro Eric J.
Published: October 2024

The evaluation of climate models is a crucial step in climate studies. It consists of quantifying the resemblance of model outputs to reference data to identify models with superior capacity to replicate specific climate variables. Clearly, the choice of the evaluation indicator significantly impacts the results, underscoring the importance of selecting an indicator that properly captures the characteristics of a “good model”. This study examines the behaviour of six indicators, considering spatial correlation, distribution mean, variance and shape. Monthly data for precipitation, temperature and teleconnection patterns in Central America were utilized in the analysis. A new multicomponent measure was selected based on these criteria to assess the performance of 32 CMIP6 models in reproducing the annual seasonal cycle of these variables. The top six models were determined using multicriteria methods. It was found that even the best model reproduces one derived climatic variable poorly in this region. The proposed measure and selection method can contribute to enhancing the accuracy of climatological research based on climate models.
Greening Separation and Purification of Proteins and Peptides
Authors: Maráková Katarína
Published: October 2024

The increasing awareness of environmental issues and the transition to green analytical chemistry (GAC) have gained popularity among academia and industry in recent years. One of the principles of GAC is the reduction and replacement of toxic solvents with more sustainable and environmentally friendly ones. This review gives an overview of the advances in applying green solvents as an alternative to the traditional organic solvents for peptide and protein purification and analysis by liquid chromatography (LC) and capillary electrophoresis (CE) methods. The feasibility of using greener LC and CE methods is demonstrated through several application examples; however, there is still plenty of room for new developments to fully realize their potential and to address existing challenges. Thanks to the tunable properties of designer solvents, such as ionic liquids and deep eutectic solvents, and almost infinite possible mixtures of components for their production, it is possible that some new designer solvents could potentially surpass the traditional harmful solvents in the future. Therefore, future research should focus mainly on developing new solvent combinations and enhancing analytical instruments to be able to effectively work with green solvents.
On temporal regularity and polynomial decay of solutions for a class of nonlinear time‐delayed fractional reaction–diffusion equations
Authors: Thu Tran Thi , Van Tuan Tran
Published: October 2024

This paper is devoted to analyzing the regularity in time and polynomial decay of solutions for a class of fractional reaction–diffusion equations (FrRDEs) involving delays and nonlinear perturbations in a bounded domain of . By establishing some regularity estimates in both time and space variables of the resolvent operator, we present results on the Hölder and ‐regularity in time of solutions for both time‐delayed linear and semilinear FrRDEs. Based on the aforementioned results, we study the existence, uniqueness, and regularity of solutions to an identification problem subjected to the delay FrRDE and the additional observations given at final time. Furthermore, under quite reasonable assumptions on nonlinear perturbations and the technique of measure of noncompactness, the existence of decay solutions with polynomial rates for the problem under consideration is shown.
Simple and Effective Identification of Local 6π‐ and Global [4n + 2] Aromaticity of Macrocyclic Conjugated Hydrocarbons by 1H/13C Chemical Shifts and the Corresponding Ring Current Effect
Authors: Kleinpeter Erich , Koch Andreas
Published: October 2024

Structures, 1H/13C chemical shifts, and the ring current effects (spatial magnetic properties: through‐space NMR shieldings [TSNMRSs]) of various π‐conjugated macrocyclic hydrocarbons and the corresponding charged analogues have been calculated at the B3LYP/6‐311G(d,p) theory level using the GIAO perturbation method and employing the nucleus‐independent chemical shift (NICS) characterization. The spatial magnetic properties (TSNMRS) are visualized as iso‐chemical shielding surfaces (ICSSs) of various size and direction and together with especially the δ(1H)/ppm chemical shifts employed to unequivocally qualify and quantify local 6π‐aromaticity of individual benzenoid building blocks and the global ([4n + 2], n > 1) aromaticity of the macrocyclic ring.
Bilateral orthogonality generative acquisitions method for homogeneous T2* images using parallel transmission at 7 T
Authors: Boğa Çelik , Henning Anke
Published: October 2024

Purpose

The novel bilateral orthogonality generative acquisitions method has been developed for homogeneous images without the effects of transmit field inhomogeneity using a parallel‐transmission (pTx) system at 7 T.

Theory and Methods

A new method has been introduced using four low‐angle gradient‐echo (GRE) acquisitions to obtain homogeneous contrast by removing the effects of transmit field inhomogeneity in the pTx system. First, two input images are obtained in circularly polarized mode and another mode in which the first transmit channel or channel group have an additional transmit phase of π. The last two acquisitions are single‐channel acquisitions for a dual‐channel system or single‐channel group acquisitions for more than two channels. The introduced method is demonstrated in dual‐channel and eight‐channel pTx systems using phantom and whole‐brain in vivo experiments. Noise performance of the proposed method is also tested against the ratio of two GRE acquisitions and the TIAMO (time‐interleaved acquisitions of modes) method.

Results

Th new method results in more homogeneous contrast in the final images than the compared methods, particularly in the low‐intensity regions of circularly polarized–mode images for the images obtained via ratio of the two GRE acquisitions.

Conclusion

The introduced method is easy to implement, robust, and provides homogeneous images of the whole brain using pTx systems with any number of channels, compared with the ratio of the two GRE images and the TIAMO method.
Analytical Solutions for Consolidation of Soft Ground With Impervious Columns Considering Non‐Darcian Flow
Authors: Li Kuo , Lu Mengmeng , Sun Jinxin
Published: October 2024

Cohesive material columns have been extensively used in foundation improvement projects to enhance the bearing capacity of composite foundations and mitigate post‐construction settlement. However, the low permeability of cohesive material columns restricts the dissipation of pore water primarily through the top surface of the foundation, potentially resulting in longer drainage paths compared to foundations treated with granular material columns or vertical drains. Moreover, the impact of non‐Darcian flow within soils on consolidation behavior becomes increasingly pronounced as the drainage path increases. Consequently, a novel analytical model for the consolidation of impervious column‐assisted foundations is established, which can incorporate the seepage model accounting for the initial hydraulic gradient. The accuracy and reasonableness of the obtained solution are then validated by conducting a comparative analysis with existing models and through a detailed case study. Furthermore, a parametric analysis is conducted to delve into the influence of several crucial factors on the consolidation performance. The findings demonstrate that non‐Darcian flow has a greater influence on composite foundations compared to natural foundations. Additionally, the threshold value of the well‐diameter ratio decreases with the increase in the initial hydraulic gradient. Finally, the final seepage front remains at a shallower position when the column–soil modulus ratio becomes larger, and the influence of non‐Darcian flow on the consolidation rate becomes more pronounced.
Construction of Metaphorical Maps of Cyberspace Resources Based on Point‐Cluster Feature Generalization
Authors: Liu Yifan , Zhang Heng , Zhou Yang , Qi Kai , Li Qingxiang
Published: October 2024

In the digital age, the expansion of cyberspace has resulted in increasing complexity, making clear cyberspace visualization crucial for effective analysis and decision‐making. Current cyberspace visualizations are overly complex and fail to accurately reflect node importance. To address the challenge of complex cyberspace visualization, this study introduces the integrated centrality metric (ICM) for constructing a metaphorical map that accurately reflects node importance. The ICM, a novel node centrality measure, demonstrates superior accuracy in identifying key nodes compared to degree centrality (DC), k‐shell centrality (KC), and PageRank values. Through community partitioning and point‐cluster feature generalization, we extract a network's hierarchical structure to intuitively represent its community and backbone topology, and we construct a metaphorical map that offers a clear visualization of cyberspace. Experiments were conducted on four original networks and their extracted backbone networks to identify core nodes. The Jaccard coefficient was calculated considering the results of the three aforementioned centrality measures, ICM, and the SIR model. The results indicate that ICM achieved the best performance in both the original networks and all extracted backbone networks. This demonstrates that ICM can more precisely evaluate node importance, thereby facilitating the construction of metaphorical maps. Moreover, the proposed metaphorical map is more convenient than traditional topological maps for quickly comprehending the complex characteristics of networks.
The Experience of Women Receiving Mastectomy Care in an Acute Surgical Ward: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Frost Celine , Lesā Raewyn , Richardson Sandra
Published: October 2024

Aim

The research aim was to understand the inpatient experience of women who received postoperative care for mastectomy surgery in an acute surgical ward.

Design

A Qualitative Descriptive Research design was used.

Methods

The lead researcher conducted individual semi‐structured interviews with 10 women who received postoperative care following mastectomy surgery in an acute hospital surgical ward. The transcribed interview data was analysed using a thematic analysis.

Results

A mastectomy is a momentous event in any woman's life. In the initial post‐operative phase, the physical intrusion of surgery, aesthetics of the ward, and mixed‐gender rooms were all found to influence the women's journey towards holistic recovery. Therapeutic care from all in the healthcare team and a ward setting conducive to recovery were identified as favourable influences towards physical and emotional healing.

Conclusion

Recognising that a mastectomy ‘is not just physical’ may help the breast care team optimise the first 24 h of postoperative care in preparation for the challenges the women may face on discharge.

Implications for the Profession and/or Patient Care

In an acute inpatient setting, a women's physical needs may be prioritised over the psychological and emotional ramifications of a mastectomy. Post‐operative inpatient care for breast cancer surgery requires not only professional competency with clinical and technical tasks, but therapeutic nursing and communication skills to support women's psychological needs.

Patient or Public Contribution

The findings were drawn from 10 women, narrating their inpatient experience for breast cancer surgery. All women had undergone a unilateral or bilateral mastectomy following breast cancer.
Histamine H1‐receptor‐mediated modulation of NMDA receptors signaling responses
Authors: Arrang J.‐M. , Armand V.
Published: October 2024

This study attempted to clarify the role of histamine H1 receptors in epilepsy by exploring the effects of agonists and inverse agonists on the rundown of the current induced by iterative applications of NMDA or GABA in primary neuronal culture. Mepyramine, a classical H1‐receptor antagonist/inverse agonist, increased the NMDA current by about 40% during the first minutes of recording. This effect was concentration‐dependent, maximal at 10 nM, and mimicked by triprolidine, another antagonist/inverse agonist. No endogenous histamine was detected in the cultures by a selective immunoassay; both compounds were acting as inverse agonists. Indicating a high constitutive activity of the H1 receptor in this system, histamine did not affect the NMDA rundown, including its settlement, but significantly reversed the effect of mepyramine. A similar pattern was obtained with 2,3 bromophenyl histamine, a selective H1‐receptor agonist. The initial increase induced by the two inverse agonists was followed by the same rundown as in controls. H1‐ and NMDA receptors are colocalized in most cultured neuronal cells. Mepyramine and histamine did not affect the GABA rundown. Our findings suggest an interaction between H1‐ and NMDA receptors. Inactivation of the H1‐receptor by its inverse agonists delays the settlement of the NMDA rundown, which may underlie their proconvulsant effect reported in clinics. Therefore, H1‐receptor constitutive activity and the effect of histamine revealed in its absence, tend to facilitate the initiation of the rundown, which is consistent with the anticonvulsant properties of histamine via activation of H1‐receptors reported in many studies.
Optimized Fabrication of Dendritic Mesoporous Silica Nanoparticles as Efficient Delivery System for Cancer Immunotherapy
Authors: Godakhindi Varsha , Yazdimamaghani Mostafa , Dam Sudip Kumar , Ferdous Farzana , Wang Andrew Z. , Tarannum Mubin , Serody Jonathan , Vivero‐Escoto Juan L.
Published: October 2024

In the past decade, cancer immunotherapy has revolutionized the field of oncology. Major immunotherapy approaches such as immune checkpoint inhibitors, cancer vaccines, adoptive cell therapy, cytokines, and immunomodulators have shown great promise in preclinical and clinical settings. Among them, immunomodulatory agents including cancer vaccines are particularly appealing; however, they face limitations, notably the absence of efficient and precise targeted delivery of immune‐modulatory agents to specific immune cells and the potential for off‐target toxicity. Nanomaterials can play a pivotal role in addressing targeting and other challenges in cancer immunotherapy. Dendritic mesoporous silica nanoparticles (DMSNs) can enhance the efficacy of cancer vaccines by enhancing the effective loading of immune modulatory agents owing to their tunable pore sizes. In this work, an emulsion‐based method is optimized to customize the pore size of DMSNs and loaded DMSNs with ovalbumin (OVA) and cytosine‐phosphate‐guanine (CpG) oligodeoxynucleotides (CpG‐OVA‐DMSNs). The immunotherapeutic effect of DMSNs is achieved through controlled chemical release of OVA and CpG in antigen‐presenting cells (APCs). The results demonstrated that CpG‐OVA‐DMSNs efficiently activated the immune response in APCs and reduced tumor growth in the murine B16‐OVA tumor model.
Pt Single Atom‐Doped Triphasic VP‐Ni3P‐MoP Heterostructure: Unveiling a Breakthrough Electrocatalyst for Efficient Water Splitting
Authors: Bhandari Ganesh , Dhakal Purna Prasad , Tran Duy Thanh , Nguyen Thanh Hai , Dinh Van An , Kim Nam Hoon , Lee Joong Hee
Published: October 2024

Enhancement of an alkaline water splitting reaction in Pt‐based single‐atom catalysts (SACs) relies on effective metal‐support interactions. A Pt single atom (PtSA)‐immobilized three‐phased PtSA@VP‐Ni3P‐MoP heterostructure on nickel foam is presented, demonstrating high catalytic performance. The existence of PtSA on triphasic metal phosphides gives an outstanding performance toward overall water splitting. The PtSA@VP‐Ni3P‐MoP performs a low overpotential of 28 and 261 mV for hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) and oxygen evolution reaction (OER) at a current density of 10 and 25 mA cm−2, respectively. The PtSA@VP‐Ni3P‐MoP (+,−) alkaline electrolyzer achieves a minimum cell voltage of 1.48 V at a current density of 10 mA cm−2 for overall water splitting. Additionally, the electrocatalyst exhibits a substantial Faradaic yield of ≈98.12% for H2 and 98.47% for O2 at a current density of 50 mA cm−2. Consequently, this study establishes a connection for understanding the active role of single metal atoms in substrate configuration for catalytic performance. It also facilitates the successful synthesis of SACs, with a substantial loading on transition metal phosphides and maximal atomic utilization, providing more active sites and, thereby enhancing electrocatalytic activity.
Shear wave elastography of the breast—Immunohistopathology and molecular subtype comparisons
Authors: Clements Natalie N. , Doherty Colin S.
Published: October 2024

Introduction

This study evaluated the shear wave elastography (SWE) in kilopascals (kPa) and metres per second (m/s) of immunohistochemical (IHC) factors, molecular subtypes, and the relationship between Kiel‐67 (Ki67) and IHC factors to explore their prognostic significance in malignant breast cancer.

Methods

This single‐centre study included 303 patients with 405 solid breast lesions, biopsied and examined using B‐mode ultrasound and SWE. Elastography mean (Emean), maximum (Emax), and ratio (Eratio) variables in kPa and m/s were calculated for each lesion.

Results

Among 405 samples, 114 malignant lesions were identified. In IHC comparisons, only the E ratio (m/s) showed a significant difference, with Ki67 high significantly greater than Ki67 low (p = 0.016). Molecular subtype comparisons using kPa and m/s values revealed significant differences in Emean and Emax (p < 0.05), with HER2+ subtypes showing the highest values. Correlation analyses showed a significant relationship between Ki67 and molecular subtypes for Eratio in both kPa and m/s (p < 0.05). Triple‐negative cytokeratin (CK5/6) positive was significantly greater than CK5/6 negative for Eratio in kPa (14.1 ± 3.9 vs. 7.9 ± 0.7, p = 0.029) and m/s (3.7 ± 0.5 vs. 2.8 ± 0.4, p = 0.021).

Conclusion

Both kPa and m/s SWE variables identify similar yet slightly different results for prognostic IHC factors and molecular subtypes. Examining both kPa and m/s SWE variables may be useful as a non‐invasive method for predicting IHC factors and molecular subtypes to characterise breast lesions before biopsy or surgery.
Efficient Distributed Transfer Learning for Large‐Scale Gaussian Graphic Models
Authors: Zhou Xingcai , Zheng Haotian , Zhang Haoran , Huang Chao
Published: October 2024

A transfer learning for the large‐scale Gaussian graphical models (GGMs) is considered in a distributed architecture for fitting these target and auxiliary studies scattered across multiple sites. A distributed transfer learning algorithm, DisPower‐Trans‐CLIME, is proposed to learn the target GGMs by incorporating the data from similar and related auxiliary studies. The algorithm is communication efficient via the distributed power method for matrix decomposition. We show that DisPower‐Trans‐CLIME has a fast convergence rate comparable to the centred Trans‐CLIME algorithm. A debiased DisPower‐Trans‐CLIME is constructed and is proved to be element‐wise asymptotically normal for statistical inference. Thus, a multiple testing procedure is developed to detect edge of GGMs with false discovery rate (FDR) control. Extensive simulation experiments have been conducted to demonstrate superior numerical performance of our proposed learning algorithm on estimation and edge detection. It is also applied to infer the regional connection networks in brain regions of interest (ROIs) based on a target hospital site by leveraging the graph from multiple other hospital sites for autism spectrum disorder. We observe that the degrees of regional connectivity in the right brain are balanced, while the ones of the left brain region are extremely uneven because of the presence of multiple strong connections. However, the specific association, between the degrees of connectivity of these regions and ASD disease, is unknown.
Symptomatology and level of satisfaction in patients using the double‐J ureteral stent
Authors: Pereira João M. B. S. M. , Antunes Leonardo de O. , Santos Giovana M. , da Silva Maria C. L. G. , Maciel Gabriela C. , Rebachi Rafael S. , Maciel Luiz C.
Published: October 2024

Background

Ureteral stents are used as temporary or permanent drainage measures for intrinsic or extrinsic occlusions of the upper urinary tract. Their use can cause complications such as urinary symptoms, which consequently impact the quality of life. Therefore, the aim of this study was to analyze the symptoms and level of satisfaction of patients who used the double‐J ureteral stent.

Methods

This article is a cross‐sectional study involving 40 volunteers who had previously undergone a urological procedure that required the insertion of a double‐J ureteral stent. Subsequently, they consulted the urology outpatient clinic and answered a questionnaire designed by the authors.

Results

According to the results, the average age of the patients was 43 years old, 75% were female, and 42.5% reported comorbidities, with hypertension being the most prevalent. The wired double‐J ureteral stent was used in 72.5% of patients, and the average length of stay was 6 days. 95% of the patients had complaints related to the use of the double‐J ureteral stent, with colicky abdominal pain being the most frequent symptom (77.5%) and hematuria being the most common urinary symptom (65%), followed by dysuria (62.5%) and urgency (52.5%). Analysis of the level of satisfaction showed that 55% of patients were satisfied and 22.5% were dissatisfied. No statistical significance was found between the incidence of symptoms related to the double‐J ureteral stent and the groups analyzed.

Conclusion

This study was able to highlight important features of the symptomatology of patients using the double‐J ureteral stent and the repercussions on satisfaction with its use. Furthermore, it was possible to concluded that the experience of using the double‐J ureteral stent was satisfactory for 55% of the patients.
Gut–Brain Axis and Neuroinflammation: The Role of Gut Permeability and the Kynurenine Pathway in Neurological Disorders
Authors: Kearns Rowan
Published: October 2024

The increasing prevalence of neurological disorders such as Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and multiple sclerosis presents a significant global health challenge. Despite extensive research, the precise mechanisms underlying these conditions remain elusive, with current treatments primarily addressing symptoms rather than root causes. Emerging evidence suggests that gut permeability and the kynurenine pathway are involved in the pathogenesis of these neurological conditions, offering promising targets for novel therapeutic and preventive strategies. Gut permeability refers to the intestinal lining’s ability to selectively allow essential nutrients into the bloodstream while blocking harmful substances. Various factors, including poor diet, stress, infections, and genetic predispositions, can compromise gut integrity, leading to increased permeability. This condition facilitates the translocation of toxins and bacteria into systemic circulation, triggering widespread inflammation that impacts neurological health via the gut–brain axis. The gut–brain axis (GBA) is a complex communication network between the gut and the central nervous system. Dysbiosis, an imbalance in the gut microbiota, can increase gut permeability and systemic inflammation, exacerbating neuroinflammation—a key factor in neurological disorders. The kynurenine pathway, the primary route for tryptophan metabolism, is significantly implicated in this process. Dysregulation of the kynurenine pathway in the context of inflammation leads to the production of neurotoxic metabolites, such as quinolinic acid, which contribute to neuronal damage and the progression of neurological disorders. This narrative review highlights the potential and progress in understanding these mechanisms. Interventions targeting the kynurenine pathway and maintaining a balanced gut microbiota through diet, probiotics, and lifestyle modifications show promise in reducing neuroinflammation and supporting brain health. In addition, pharmacological approaches aimed at modulating the kynurenine pathway directly, such as inhibitors of indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase, offer potential avenues for new treatments. Understanding and targeting these interconnected pathways are crucial for developing effective strategies to prevent and manage neurological disorders.

Graphical Abstract
Genome-wide association analysis revealed genetic markers linked to grain yield and yield related traits in finger millet grown in acidic soils
Authors: Brhane Haftom , Haileselassie Teklehaimanot , Tesfaye Kassahun , Lule Dagnachew , Abreha Kibrom B. , Hammenhag Cecilia , Ortiz Rodomiro , Geleta Mulatu
Published: October 2024

Aim

Soil acidity has a major impact on the finger millet yield and productivity as tolerant cultivars that perform well in acidic soils are limited. This study aimed at evaluating major finger millet phenotypic traits under acidic soils followed by identifying associated markers.

Method

A total of 288 finger millet genotypes were field evaluated for 8 major phenotypic traits including grain yield under acid soil conditions at two independent locations (Bako and Gute) in Ethiopia. In parallel, the same genotypes were subjected to genotyping-by-sequencing to generate single nucleotide polymorphism markers to be used in the association panel.

Results

Phenotypic data analysis revealed significant phenotypic variation in all the targeted traits among the studied genotypes. Genotypes Ec-100093, Ec-215803, and Ec-203322 were relatively high-yielding, whereas genotypes Ec-229721 and Ec-242110 had the lowest grain yield across the two locations. The broad-sense heritability of the traits ranged from 0.04 for the number of effective tillers (NET) to 0.78 for days to emergence (DE). The marker-trait association analysis revealed 23 SNP markers significantly associated with one or more traits. Among the 23 significant markers, one marker associated with DE, seven with days to heading (DH), four with days to maturity (DM), one with plant height (PH), two with number of fingers, two with ear length (EL), three with the number of effective tillers (NET) and three with grain yield (GY).

Conclusions

The identified novel markers associated with the targeted traits will potentially be useful for genomics-driven finger millet improvement in acidic soils.
Evaluation of the Effectiveness of a Group CBT-Based Intervention Aiming to Reduce Self-Stigma and Improve Recovery-Related Outcomes in People with Severe Mental Disorders: Randomised Controlled Trial
Authors: Frączek-Cendrowska Katarzyna , Świtaj Piotr , Stefaniak Izabela
Published: October 2024

Self-stigma is a major barrier to personal and clinical recovery in people with mental illness. Although psychosocial interventions have been developed to reduce self-stigma, the exploration of group CBT-based interventions for hospitalised patients are less represented. The purpose of this trial is to investigate the effectiveness of a group CBT-based intervention aiming to reduce self-stigma and improve recovery-related outcomes such as self-esteem, stigma resistance and sense of coherence, which comes down to saying, “I am what I am”. A total of 104 patients admitted to the inpatient therapy were recruited to participate in a randomised controlled clinical trial, and 77 participants (46 in the intervention group and 31 in the control group) completed the trial. Constructs of interest were measured before and after the intervention. The results showed that the evaluated intervention was effective in improving sense of coherence and stigma resistance, compared to treatment as usual (TAU). The level of self-stigma significantly decreased in both the intervention and control groups, but no statistically significant difference was observed between the groups. The limitations of the study include: the lack of assessment of the sustainability of the effects of therapy (follow-up), the presence of intensive interventions of the ward’s programme and patients pre-qualified for the ward based on admission criteria. The intervention “I am what I am,” has proven to be effective, especially in increasing the level of personal resources needed to build clinical and personal recovery and to counteract the negative consequences of self-stigma.
The Concept of Using 3D Printing Technology in Ceramic Foundry Filter Manufacturing
Authors: Kwiatkowski Maciej , Przybyła Szymon , Kwiatkowski Michał , Hebda Marek
Published: October 2024

The article presents the concept of using 3D printing technology in ceramic foundry filter manufacturing. They are a crucial component for obtaining an acceptable quality of nickel superalloys by carrying out the process using the precision casting method. Commonly used filters of this type have a number of disadvantages. They are characterized by irregularity of the filtering structure, high brittleness, lack of resistance to mechanical shocks, and impacts of a stream of liquid metal. All these factors create a risk of introducing the material from the damaged filter into the casting mold, which translates into contamination of the casting alloy, and thus the occurrence of casting defects such as nonmetallic inclusions. The hope for a change in this state of affairs is the use of additive manufacturing technology in their production, which by assumption will allow to obtain a product with a repeatable shape, high mechanical resistance, and a specially designed structure regulating the flow of liquid metal into the mold during casting. The suitability of robocasting and binder jetting technology for producing filtration structures was initially assessed. The results have presented the selection of ceramic powder, as well as the development of the composition of the ceramic paste. The parameters of paste preparation and 3D printing individual processes were described. Moreover, the representative microstructures and basic mechanical properties of samples obtained by both of the compared technologies were presented. Furthermore, the final effect of prototype casting filters with a repeatable shape, manufactured with the use of both technologies, was presented, which were transferred for further technological research in a foundry producing critical aircraft engine parts. The possibilities of using each technology in various applications were also discussed.
Effect of osmotic dehydration and gamma irradiation on quality characteristics of dried vegetable slices
Authors: Hassan Naglaa A. A. , Mousa Esraa A. M. , Elbassiony Khalid R. A. , Ali Maha I.K.
Published: October 2024

Osmotic drying is commonly utilized to create innovative products, as it can improve the sensory and nutritional qualities of the final products. The present study aims to investigate the effect of different osmotic solutions, including soaking in 1% citric acid, 10% NaCl, and a combination of 1% citric acid and 10% NaCl, as well as different doses of gamma irradiation (1 and 3 kGy), on the quality properties of dehydrated vegetable slices. The chemical composition, mineral content, Color measurement, texture profile, vitamin C levels, and sensory attributes were evaluated for dried vegetable slices. The findings showed that treating vegetable slices with a combination of 1% citric acid and 10% NaCl increased ash (3.43–4.34%), hardness, and total phenolic content (38.37–117.04 mg GAE/100 g). It was the most preferred by the panelists in sensory evaluation scores in comparison to the other treatments. Moreover, there were no significant differences in terms of chemical composition, mineral content, and texture profile analysis between irradiation doses of 1 and 3 kGy. Furthermore, samples irradiated at 1 kGy had significantly higher scores in sensory evaluation compared to both irradiated and unirradiated samples. The current study recommends treating vegetable slices with a combination of 1% citric acid and 10% NaCl before drying to enhance most of the quality attributes of the dried vegetable slices.
Relationship between voice impairment and stress coping styles in professionally active teachers
Authors: Nawrocka Lidia , Garstecka Agnieszka , Mackiewicz-Nartowicz Hanna , Kozakiewicz-Rutkowska Agata , Burduk Paweł , Sinkiewicz Anna
Published: October 2024

Background and aim

The cause of voice problems in teachers are excessive voice strain, improper voice emission, and wrong emotional responses to occupational stress. The aim of the study was to analyze the relationship between subjective voice assessment of professionally active teachers treated for voice disorders and their stress-coping styles.

Methods

The study included 174 female teachers participating in a 24-day voice rehabilitation program at a sanatorium hospital. The Voice Handicap Index (VHI) self-assessment questionnaire was used to subjectively assess voice impairment. The Coping Inventory for Stressful Situations (CISS) questionnaire was used to assess coping styles. The VHI and CISS questionnaires were administered to the teachers at the beginning of the rehabilitation stay.

Results

Emotion-focused coping was shown to be associated with the subjective assessment of voice dysfunction as assessed by the VHI questionnaire for the total score and all of its dimensions (p = 0.04).

Conclusions

In addition to proper voice emission, the prevention and rehabilitation of occupational voice disorders in teachers should also include stress management techniques, as this can help reduce the incidence of functional voice disorders in this occupational group.
Models of Variability in Probabilistic Causal Judgments
Authors: Kolvoort Ivar , Davis Zachary J. , Rehder Bob , van Maanen Leendert
Published: October 2024

Most theories of causal reasoning aim to explain the central tendency of causal judgments. However, experimental studies show that causal judgments are quite variable. In this article, we report the results of an experiment using a novel repeated measures design that demonstrate the existence of meaningful (i.e., not noise-related) within-participant variability. Next, we introduce and assess multiple computational cognitive models that serve as potential accounts of the sources of variability and fit those models to the new empirical data. We find that the Bayesian Mutation Sampler has the best fit to the data and is able to account for a number of unusual features of the response distributions (e.g., bi-modality), supporting the view that the stochastic sampling mechanism it posits reflects the cognitive processes via which people draw causal inferences. Additionally, our findings suggest that incorporating ‘non-reasoning’ processes, such as rounding and guessing, can improve the ability of models of causal reasoning to account for the observed response distributions. Overall, the study highlights the potential of computational modeling of full response distributions to shed light on the underlying mechanisms of human causal reasoning and identifies promising directions for future research.
A Robust numerical technique based on the chromatic polynomials for the European options regulated by the time-fractional Black–Scholes equation
Authors: Nirmala A. N. , Kumbinarasaiah S.
Published: October 2024

Risk mitigation and control are critical for investors in the finance sector. Purchasing significant instruments that eliminate the risk of price fluctuation helps investors manage these risks. In theory and practice, option pricing is a substantial issue among many financial derivatives. In this scenario, most investors adopt the Black–Scholes model to describe the behavior of the underlying asset in option pricing. The exceptional memory effect prevalent in fractional derivatives makes it easy to understand and explain the approximation of financial options in terms of their inherited characteristics prompted by the given reason. Finding numerical solutions that are both successful and suitably precise is crucial when working with financial fractional differential equations. Hence, this paper proposes an innovative method, designated the Chromatic polynomial collocation method (CPM), for the theoretical study of the Time fractional Black–Scholes equation (TFBSE) that regulates European call options. The newly developed numerical algorithm CPM is on a functional basis of the Chromatic polynomials of Complete graphs (Kn) and operational matrices of the basis polynomials. The CPM transforms the TFBSE into a framework of nonlinear algebraic equations with the help of operational matrices and equispaced collocation points. The fractional orders in the PDE are concerned in the Caputo sense. The CPM findings further corroborate the results of the most recent numerical schemes to show the effectiveness of the suggested numerical algorithm.
Lemierre syndrome due to Klebsiella pneumoniae: a rare case report with review of literature
Authors: Rangan N. Mohan , Singh Anup Kumar , Yadav Rekha C. , Roy Indranil Deb , Tomar Kapil , Singh Neha , R Vasanthanarayanan
Published: October 2024

Lemierre’s syndrome, a forgotten clinical entity, is characterised by septic thrombophlebitis of the internal jugular vein due to oropharyngeal infection. In the past, it was mainly associated withFusobacterium necrophoruminfections. We present a unique case report of Lemierre’s syndrome due toKlebsiella pneumoniae. Patient reported with progressive swelling involving right side of the neck that eventually increased in size. After confirming the diagnosis through CECT, patient was managed through combined medical and surgical therapy in the form of incision and drainage, targeted antibiotic therapy, glycaemic control and anticoagulation therapy. This case report highlights the association of poor glycaemic control in the pathogenesis and the isolation ofKlebsiella pneumoniaeas the rare organism of Lemierre’s syndrome.