bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Novel Bio-Inspired 3DOF Spherical Robotic Manipulator
Authors: Suleyman Soltanov Suleyman Soltanov , Roberts Rodney G.
Published: December 2024

Studying the interactions between biological organisms and their environment provides engineers with valuable insights for developing complex mechanical systems, and fostering the creation of novel technological innovations. In this study, we introduce a novel bio-inspired three degrees of freedom (DOF) spherical robotic manipulator (SRM), designed to emulate the biomechanical properties observed in nature. The design utilizes the transformation of spherical Complex Spatial Kinematic Pairs (CSKPs) to synthesize bio-inspired robotic manipulators. Additionally, the use of screw theory and the Levenberg-Marquardt algorithm for kinematic parameter computation supports further advancements in human-robot interaction and simplifies control processes. By directly transmitting motion from the motors, the platform replicates the ball and socket mobility observed in biological joints, while minimizing mechanical losses and optimizing energy efficiency, thereby ensuring superior performance in spatial mobility. The proposed 3DOF SRM provides advantages including an expanded workspace, enhanced dexterity, and a lightweight, compact design. Experimental validation, conducted through SolidWorks, MATLAB, Python, and Arduino, demonstrates the versatility and broad application potential of the novel bio-inspired 3DOF SRM, positioning it as a robust solution for a wide range of robotic applications.
Microbial Community in Permafrost, Moraine and Deschampsia Antartica Rhizosphere Soils Near Ecology Glacier (King George Island, Maritime Antarctic)
Authors: Palma Daniel E. , Gaete Alexis , López Dariel , Marcoleta Andrés E. , Chávez Francisco P. , Bravo León A. , Acuña Jacqueline J. , Cambiazo Verónica , Jorquera Milko A.
Published: December 2024

The recession of glaciers in the Antarctic is a global concern under climate change, but the impact of deglaciation on soil microbiomes is still limited. Here, soil samples were collected from permafrost (P), moraine (M) and Deschampsia antartica rhizospheres (R) soils near Ecology Glacier (Antarctic), and their soil physicochemical properties and microbial communities were characterized. Our results revealed significant differences in the soil properties and microbial communities between the R samples and the P and M samples. Specifically, the amplicon sequencing technique revealed high bacterial richness and diversity in the studied soils, dominated mainly by the phyla Proteobacteria, Actinobacteriota and Bacteroidota. Lower richness and diversity were observed in the archaeal communities, which were dominated by the phyla Chenarchaeota (M and R) and Thermoplasmadota (M). The fungal community analysis also revealed a lower richness and diversity (M and R), dominated by the phylum Ascomycota. Our observations are consistent with previous reports describing the relevant changes in soil microbial communities during glacial recession, including fewer microbial groups studied in soils (archaea and fungi). However, further studies are still needed to elucidate the contributions of microbial communities to soil formation and plant colonization in ice-free soils in Antarctica under global climate change.
Accuracy and Repeatability of Rolling Stock Distortion Test for Interference to Signalling
Authors: Bongiorno Jacopo , Bhagat Sahil
Published: December 2024

Testing of rolling stock for assessment of disturbance to signalling circuits is considered with focus on the measurement process and the selection of operating conditions. The definition of interference limits is briefly reviewed, but they are considered an external input. The spectral behaviour of acquired signals and the evaluation of repeatability are instead discussed with the help of three different real test cases, considering correspondence between similar operating points and differences as rolling stock operation evolves during a test run. Repeatability evaluated as standard deviation is in the order of 3% to 5% in the harmonic and audio frequency range for the different systems, slightly lower for AC railways; above about 10-15 kHz it increases to 30%. Uncorrelated components (with much lower amplitude) may show much higher dispersion.
Calculation of the entropy of a classical Heisenberg ferromagnet based on the approximation of two-particle distribution functions
Authors: Ivanov Anton Valerievich
Published: December 2024

The paper presents a new method for directly calculating the entropy of a classical Heisenberg magnet based on the approximation of a two-particle distribution function. Such an approximation, taking into account the correlations between magnetic moments, is also the basis for creating a system of equations of correlation magnetodynamics. The method presented in the paper is approximate, does not have a strict justification and can be considered as a certain expansion, each subsequent member of which, based on the highest distribution functions, allows to increase the accuracy. The efficiency of the method is demonstrated in a large series of computational experiments for three types of crystal lattice (primitive, body-centered and face-centered) in a wide range of parameters.
THE ESSENCE OF THE PROCESS OF VIBRATIONAL FINISHING AND CLEANING, ITS TECHNOLOGICAL CAPABILITIES AND WAYS TO INCREASE EFFICIENCY
Authors: Mitsyk Andrii , Fedorovich Vladimir , Kozakova Natalia
Published: December 2024

The main provisions of the classification of the vibration processing process depending on the characteristics and composition of the processing medium are given. It is established that vibration processing is a mechanochemical removal of metal particles and its oxides, and plastic deformation of the microroughness of the surface of the part. It was found that vibration processing is related to mechanical dynamic processes, when using chemically active solutions it is related to mechanochemical processes, according to technological purpose to dimensionless processes, according to the type of tool – to processing with free abrasives. It was determined that vibration processing is characterized by the dynamic mechanochemical effect of abrasive medium granules on the treated surface and the acoustic effect of shock waves. It has been established that the features of mechanical and physicochemical phenomena of vibration processing differ in the physical properties of the granules of the medium, the characteristics of the material of the processed parts, the dynamic nature of the process, the composition and properties of the chemically active solution. A classification of defects in the formation of parts, controlled parameters and vibration processing operations is given. The technological capabilities of the processing are presented, these are micro-cutting and surface plastic deformation, the effect of variable accelerations and continuous application of micro-impacts to the surface being processed, which ensures the dynamic nature of the process and creates conditions for strengthening and stabilizing processing. The design of the vibration machines allows the use of various compositions of solid, liquid and mixed compositions of working media. To increase the efficiency of the process, a variable scheme for combining technical solutions of new varieties of the vibration processing process is proposed. It has been established that by combining various combinations of technological and design parameters it is possible to expand the scope of application of the vibration finishing and cleaning process based on the creation and implementation of its varieties.
Análisis del impacto en funcionalidad y calidad de vida de los pacientes diagnosticados de cáncer colorrectal
Authors: Frutos-Reoyo Emilio Javier , López-Maté Laura , Gándara-Alonso Marcos , González-Fraile Laura , Sastre-Parro Sara , Candau-Pérez Ernesto Domingo
Published: December 2024

Introduction: Colorectal cancer is one of the most common tumours. The impact on the functionality and quality of life of these patients is enormous. However, the emotional impact has not been analysed as much. Prehabilitation can help to address this major impact.
Objective: To quantify the impact on the functionality and quality of life of patients diagnosed with colorectal cancer.
Methods: Observational cross-sectional study of all patients diagnosed with colorectal cancer and undergoing surgery in a tertiary hospital over a calendar year.
Results: A total of 127 patients were included, 68.5% were male. The most frequent tumour staging according to the AJCC classification was IIIB. Regarding quality of life as measured by the SF-12, a score of 48.18 was obtained for the SF-12 MCS and 51.79 for the SF-12 PCS. Regarding functionality, a mean score of 464.54 was observed for the 6MWT, 9.20 for the TUG and 52.27 for the PIM. Statistically significant differences were found between 6MWT and staging (p<0.05).
Conclusion: Patients affected by colorectal cancer experience a great impact on functionality and quality of life that require a multidisciplinary approach that includes prehabilitation to mitigate these effects, reducing the costs and mortality of this pathology.
The Engineer - Who Is He?
Authors: Calhoun John C.
Published: December 2024

How does one recognize an engineer? Is it by the specific job he performs; by the technical knowledge he possesses; by his membership in a certain type of professional society; by the fact that he is licensed; because he is employed by a particular kind of industry; or perhaps because he has graduated from an engineering curriculum? This may seem like a rather naive question, yet it is at the heart of much of the discussion today concerning the advance of technology and the ability of this nation to compete with other nations. The question also plays a role in manpower evaluations and in deliberations on shortages of engineers. It also is a question pertinent to the establishment of engineering curricula in our colleges and universities.

There are at least two approaches of significance to this question. First, let us look at the engineer in relation to the scientist and the industrialist, two other persons with whom the engineer may be confused; second, let us look at the engineer in terms of the kind of job he does.

It is said that the engineer is becoming more of a scientist. Another commonly held opinion is that the best engineer is a scientist who has decided to work on applied jobs. Is there really a merging of these identities? I do not believe so.

It is true that all areas of inquiry are becoming more complex. It is also true that some of the newer ideas of inquiry are more abstract. Furthermore, the total body of available scientific information becomes increasingly large. Hence, the engineer will not only need to study more science to know his particular area of inquiry, but as the scientist moves on to new and deeper challenges, more of what he leaves will become a part of the engineer's background. However, these things do not make the functional role of the engineer equivalent to that of the scientist.
Comprehensive Study on Curing, Plugging, and Acid-Dissolution of Antipollution MgO-Based Curing Material in Polysulfonate Drilling Fluid
Authors: Zhang Hao , She Jiping , Ma Wenjing , Xu Chengyuan , You Zhenjiang , Yang Bin
Published: December 2024

Direct injection of low-solid curable materials with drilling fluid has the potential to streamline the construction process and reduce costs associated with lost circulation. In this paper, the basic properties, curing behavior, plugging performance, and acid-dissolution characteristics of the mixed slurry using self-made Magnesium oxide (MgO)-based curing material (MCM) combined with polysulfonate drilling fluid were investigated. The basic properties of the mixed slurry exhibited excellent pollution resistance of MCM. The mixed slurry containing 30–50% MCM showed the volume shrinkage ranging from −1.55% to 3.02% and the curing time spanning from 1.67 hours to 2.17 hours, showing exceptional curing behavior. The drilling fluid had no effect on the final strength, but the different components had either negative [sulfonated phenolic resin (SMP-1)] or positive [sodium hydroxide (NaOH)] effects on the hydration process through scanning electron microscope (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and energy-dispersive spectrometer (EDS). Besides, retarder effectively extended the curing time to 270–470 minutes without compromising the strength of the final cured product or affecting formation processes, which can be used to control the curing time of MCM. Pressure-resistance testing revealed that sealing zones and induced cracks with rough surfaces exhibited higher interfacial bonding capacity, while induced cracks as small as 2 mm showed minimal leakage at pressures up to 16 MPa and eventually stabilized at 14 MPa. Furthermore, acid dissolution tests demonstrated complete release of cured products in a short time, offering potential benefits for reservoir protection. Field application examples further confirmed the compatibility of MCM with drilling fluid and its effectiveness in sealing cracks.
Prevalence of Tramadol Abuse and Associated Factors among Hawassa University Students
Authors: Shiferaw¹ Adanech , Tamiru¹ Wudinesh , Mohammed¹ Fetiya , Ataro Getu , Bisrat Zewengel
Published: December 2024

Introduction:Tramadol abuse is a current public health concern in Ethiopia. Drug abuse including that of tramadol is a significant public health issue that causes health, economic, and social problems to individual drug users, their families, the community, and the entire nation. Therefore this study delivers information regarding current tramadol abuse among students of an Ethiopian University.
Objective:The aim of this study is to assess the prevalence of tramadol abuse and associated factors among Hawassa university students, February to June 2023.
Methods and materials: A cross-sectional study was performed among 402 randomly selected Hawassa university students. Data was collected from participant through self-administered researcher made questionnaire using kobo toolbox software applications. Data from kobo toolbox were directly exported to and analyzed by using SPSS version 26 software. Binary logistic regression was applied to identify the factors associated with tramadol abuse. In the final model, Adjusted Odds Ratio, and 95% CI was used to measure the strength of association and P-value less than 0.05 considered statistically significant.
Result: A total of 402 students were enrolled in this study of which 46 students (11.4%) had history of tramadol abuse once in their lifetime with 23.9% of them were active tramadol abuser with some dependence behaviors. The result of multivariate analysis shows that having a friend who use drugs (p=0.041, OR=1.691), knowing about tramadol (p=0.001, OR=13.766) and having the history of taking tramadol with physicians prescription in their life time (P<0.001, OR=12.951) were the significant predictors of tramadol abuse.
Conclusion:The life time prevalence of tramadol abuse among university students is high and it demands attention of government and the general public.
Digital PCR detection of Microsporidia spp. in household pipe water of patients with microsporidial keratitis
Authors: Sriyuttag Wararee , Mordmaung Auemphon , Techarang Tachpon , Juhong Jakkrit , Kowanz Dominik H , Udomwech Lunla
Published: December 2024

This is a prospective non-comparative experimental study aimed to investigate the presence of Microsporidia spp. in household pipe water of microsporidial keratitis (MK) patients and to describe the patients’ characteristics and behavioral risk factors. This study was conducted at Walailak University Hospital, Thailand, from July 2022 to February 2024. Patients diagnosed with MK were surveyed using a questionnaire to assess personal behaviors and source of household water. Water from faucets of MK patients’ houses were collected for laboratory analysis with digital polymerase chain reaction (dPCR) to detect Microsporidia spp. in water samples. The study involved 67 MK patients, with 23 households contributing water samples. Utilizing dPCR analysis, we found that all water samples were contaminated with Microsporidia spp. Level of contamination differed depending on the water source, with households that use untreated water in their plumbing system having significantly higher copies of pathogenic microsporidial DNA. Contrary to traditionally perceived risk from soil contact into eyes, our study identifies household water as an unforeseen potential source of MK. This emphasizes the critical importance of water quality management in preventing the infection.
Preparation and Characterization of Biopolymeric Films Produced from Fruit and Vegetable Waste
Authors: S Vijaya Kumar M
Published: December 2024

Over the past decades, significant efforts have been made to prepare biofilms. These efforts aim to achieve biopolymeric films from fruits and vegetables waste with soluble and biodegradable new films. In the current study, biopolymeric films were prepared by the starch extracted from banana peel and potato peel and the mechanical and physical properties of the prepared samples were studied. The mechanical property showed that tensile strength decreased by increasing the banana peel starch content whereas the percentage elongation at break was increased. The swelling studies revealed that the weight of the films increased when the film was soaked in distilled water. Biodegradation studies showed biopolymeric films with potato peel composition of was 60% (P60) and 100% (P100) were completely degraded in 16 days. Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) results indicated an increase in the degradation rate compared to the biofilms prepared using neat banana and potato peel starch. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images suggesting two-phase morphology which shows incompatibility of the blends prepared by potato and banana starch. The pure potato peel-based starch film showed good results compared to other compositions as well as neat banana peel starch based films. Based on the results obtained for 100% potato peel shows higher values compare to other compositions. The results suggested that the prepared biopolymeric films could be mainly used in wrapping applications and food packaging where load bearing properties is of least importance.
A Longitudinal Integrated Clerkship Exercise in Interprofessional Education – A Quantitative Analysis
Authors: Schwartz Jennifer E. , Ko Paul , Freed Stephanie , Safdar Neelum , Christman Megan , Page Renee , Wallach Paul M.
Published: December 2024

Purpose: Medical students must function within an interprofessional team to provide effective, patient-centered care. Indiana University School of Medicine (IUSM) integrated an interprofessional exercise into each clerkship to improve understanding of each professional’s contribution to patient care.
Methods: Between 2022-2023, IUSM medical students interviewed a healthcare professional engaged in the care of a mutual patient, answered questions, and evaluated the experience. Students interviewed a different professional in each clerkship to broaden their exposure.
Results: 3088 encounters occurred, 67.5% at the Indianapolis campus and 32.5% at regional campuses. 82.6 – 94.5% of students agreed or strongly agreed that the exercise aided their understanding of the benefits of an interprofessional team to patient care, that they understood when participation of the specific healthcare professional would benefit their patient, that the experience contributed to their understanding of the role of that profession within the healthcare team, that their confidence in engaging other healthcare professionals on the health care team improved, and that the experience aided in understanding of their own role as a member of the health care team.
Conclusion: This exercise was easy to implement across a multi-campus system and improved student satisfaction and comprehension of the interprofessional team and indications for their engagement in patient care.
Microsoft HoloLens 2 vs. Tablet-based Augmented Reality and 3D printing for fronto- orbital reconstruction of craniosynostosis: A case study
Authors: Pose-Díez-de-la-Lastra Alicia , García-Sevilla Mónica , Tapp Austin , Tousidonis Manuel , Darriba-Alles Juan-Vicente , Linguraru Marius George , Pascau Javier , Ochandiano Santiago
Published: December 2024

Background Craniosynostosis is a congenital condition characterized by the premature fusion of cranial sutures, leading to potential complications such as abnormal skull growth, increased intracranial pressure, and cognitive delays. Traditionally, open cranial vault reconstruction (OCVR) has been used to treat this condition. However, it is highly subjective and greatly dependent on the surgeon's expertise, which can lead to residual deformities and the need for reoperation. Effective preoperative planning can greatly improve surgical outcomes, although the major challenge is accurately translating this plan into the clinical setting. Recently, augmented reality (AR) and 3D printing have emerged as promising technologies to facilitate this endeavor. In this work, we propose three alternatives, leveraging these technologies, to guide the precise repositioning of remodeled bone fragments in the patient.Methods The three guidance methods are AR on a tablet, AR with Microsoft HoloLens 2, and 3D-printed spacers. The accuracy of each method was assessed by measuring the deviation of each bone fragment from the virtual surgical plan (VSP) in a simulated environment using 3D-printed phantoms based on a 14-month-old boy with trigonocephaly. The same assessment was also performed during his actual surgery.Results All three guidance methods demonstrated similar levels of accuracy, with mean placement errors below 1 mm in all cases. The AR systems allowed for real-time adjustments, enhancing precision. Statistical analysis showed no significant differences in error rates between the different methods or attempts.Conclusions Integrating AR and 3D printing into craniosynostosis surgery holds great potential for improving OCVR. While 3D-printed spacers are useful when digital technologies are unavailable, AR-based methods provide more comprehensive guidance. Nevertheless, our study suggests that the choice may depend more on the specific clinical context, user-specific skills, and available resources rather than on a clear superiority of one method over the others.
Telugu domain identification using multiple channel LSTM-CNN
Authors: Buddha Hari Kumar , P Chitra
Published: December 2024

Retrieving domain-oriented information from text data offers a wide range of applications in information retrieval and natural language processing due to the rapid increase of text information. The text is condensed and represented by thematic keywords. Text summarization, information extraction, question-answering, machine translation, and sentiment analysis all frequently rely heavily on domain identification. In this study, we proposed the Telugu Technical Domain Identification Multichannel LSTM-CNN approach. The ICON shared task "TechDOfication 2020" utilised and tested this architecture, and our system received a 69.9% F1 score on the test dataset and a 90.01% F1 score on the validation set.
Geological and experimental evidence of bioavailable phosphite during the Great Oxygenation Event
Authors: Baidya Abu , Boden Joanne , Li Yuhao , Smith Albertus , Konhauser Kurt , Stüeken Eva
Published: December 2024

Phosphorus (P) availability throughout geologic time has likely impacted the co-evolution of life and Earth’s environments. Phylogenetic data suggest that phosphate was the primary P-source for microbial life during the Archean, but phosphite, a reduced form of P, became relatively more important leading up towards the Great Oxygenation Event (GOE) in the Neoarchean to Paleoproterozoic. However, seawater phosphite concentrations during this time, and the potential processes driving this shift in P utilization, are unknown. Here, we performed laboratory experiments simulating the precipitation of banded iron formations (BIFs) as hydrous ferric oxyhydroxides (HFO) in deionized water, diluted seawater, and seawater containing phosphate and phosphite. We also measured phosphite concentrations in BIF samples from four Neoarchean-Paleoproterozoic formations. Our results indicate a weaker removal of phosphite compared to phosphate by HFO irrespective of solution chemistry. Paired with measurements of phosphite (up to 0.05–250 ppm) in BIFs, we estimate that seawater phosphite concentration at the onset of the GOE could have reached up to 0.01–0.17 µM. We propose that the preferential removal of phosphate relative to phosphite by HFO, coupled with microbial competition for P facilitated by oxygenic photosynthesis, might have created phosphate-depleted environments, prompting life to exploit alternative P sources such as phosphite.
Relationship between intraoperative blood pressure variability and postoperative acute kidney injury in pediatric cardiac surgery
Authors: Xiao Rong , Zhou Ronghua , Luo Ming
Published: December 2024

Background Cardiac surgery-associated acute kidney injury (CSA-AKI) is a notably common complication in pediatrics, with an incidence rate ranging from 15% to 64%. This rate is significantly higher than that observed in adults. Currently, there is a lack of substantial evidence regarding the association between intraoperative blood pressure variability (BPV) during cardiac surgery with cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) and the development of AKI in pediatric patients.
Methods This retrospective observational study encompassed children aged of 0 – 7
years undergoing cardiac surgery with CPB. Intraoperative BPV was calculated using coefficients of variation (CVs) and the area under the curve (AUC). Univariate and multivariate analyses were employed to identify risk factors associated with CSA-AKI.
Results Among 570 patients (median age 1 year) reviewed. 36.1% developed CSA-AKI (68.9% risk stage, 22.8% injury stage, 8.3% failure stage). After adjusting for other variables, male gender (OR=2.044, 95%CI: 1.297-3.222, P=0.002), congenital heart surgery risk assessment grade (RACHS-1) classification ≥3 (OR=0.510, 95%CI: 0.307-0.846, P=0.009), longer CPB time (OR=1.022, 95%CI: 1.007-1.037, P=0.004) and higher peak value of intraoperative vasoactive inotropic score (VIS) (OR=1.072, 95%CI: 1.026-1.119, P=0.002) were identified as independent risk factors for CSA-AKI. ±30%AUCm was different in univariate analysis (P=0.014), however, not statistically different in multifactor analysis (P=0.610).
Conclusion Greater BPV, specifically MAP variations exceeding 30%AUC during CPB, may be a potential risk factor for CSA-AKI in pediatric. Further large sample clinical studies are warranted to analyze the correlation between BPV and CSA-AKI.
Mfsd2a suppresses colorectal cancer progression and liver metastasis via the S100A14/STAT3 axis
Authors: Sun linfeng , Pu Liyong , Li Xiangdong , Xiao Yuhao , Yu Wenjie , Chen Xuyang , Wang Ziyi , Xia Nan , Chen Xuejiao , Chen Minghao , Zhu Haoliang , Li Jie , Wei Jie , Han Sheng
Published: December 2024

Background
Colorectal cancer (CRC) exhibits a high incidence globally, with the liver being the most common site of distant metastasis. At the time of diagnosis, 20–30% of CRC patients already present with liver metastases. Colorectal liver metastasis (CRLM) is a major cause of mortality among CRC patients. The pathogenesis of CRLM involves complex molecular mechanisms and the hepatic immune microenvironment, but current clinical prevention and treatment are significantly limited. Recent studies have revealed that the major facilitator superfamily domain containing protein-2a (Mfsd2a) plays a pivotal role in the development and metastasis of various cancers.. For instance, Mfsd2a inhibits gastric cancer initiation and progression and may impact angiogenesis. However, the mechanisms by which Mfsd2a influences CRC progression and liver metastasis remain unclear.
Methods
In this study, we conducted a survival analysis of Mfsd2a in colorectal cancer using data from the GEPIA and GEO databases, and examined the expression differences between primary tumor (PT) and liver metastasis (LM). We further assessed the clinical significance and prognostic relevance of Mfsd2a through immunohistochemical analysis of tissue samples from 70 CRLM patients. Moreover, Kaplan-Meier analysis was used to perform survival analysis on these patients. The biological function of Mfsd2a in CRLM was confirmed by a series of experiments conducted both in vitro and in vivo. Additionally, we investigated downstream molecular pathways using western blot, co- immunoprecipitation, immunofluorescence, and mass spectrometry techniques.
Results
We observed that Mfsd2a expression is reduced in LM compared to PT, and higher Mfsd2a levels are associated with better prognosis in CRLM patients. Furthermore, function assays demonstrated that Mfsd2a suppresses CRC cells proliferation, migration, invasion, and EMT in vitro, while also delaying tumor growth and liver metastasis in vivo. Mechanistically, Mfsd2a interacts with S100A14, enhancing its expression and inhibiting phosphorylation of STAT3. In addition, the STAT3 activator colivelin partially reversed the inhibitory effect of Mfsd2a overexpression on the progression of colorectal cancer and liver metastasis.
Conclusion
In summary, Mfsd2a inhibits colorectal cancer progression and liver metastasis by interacting with S100A14, thereby suppressing the phosphorylation of STAT3. Mfsd2a functions as a tumor suppressor in CRLM and could be a promising therapeutic target for treating CRC patients with liver metastasis.
Evaluation of urinary vanin-1 for the early prediction of cisplatin-induced acute kidney injury during neoadjuvant chemotherapy for esophageal cancer
Authors: Uchino Tomonobu , Iwano Yuna , Miyazaki Yasunori , Nakajo Michiaki , Osawa Misa , Nagai Erina , Taki Yusuke , Sato Shinsuke , Watanabe Masaya , Takagi Masakazu , Kagawa Yoshiyuki
Published: December 2024

Purpose
Cisplatin (CDDP) induces acute kidney injury (AKI) as a side effect during neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC). Urinary vanin-1 excretion might increase during CDDP treatment. We investigated whether urinary vanin-1 may be an early biomarker of CDDP-induced AKI.
Methods
Thirty patients were administrated 80 mg/m2 CDDP on day 1 as NAC for esophageal cancer. Blood and urine samples were collected on days 1, 2, 3, 4 and 6 after CDDP administration. Serum creatinine (sCr) and urinary vanin-1 were measured. Creatinine clearance (cCr) and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) were calculated from sCr. Based on the change of sCr after CDDP administration, AKI and non-AKI groups were defined using the Kidney Disease Improving Global Outcomes classification. Changes in sCr, cCr, eGFR, and urinary vanin-1 were compared between the two groups.
Results
A gradual increase in sCr and decrease in eGFR were observed over time post-CDDP administration, with differences between the two groups becoming significant by day 4. However, urinary vanin-1 levels increased on day 3 after CDDP administration, and the difference between the two groups was already significant on day 3. Receiver operating characteristic curves of urinary vanin-1 on day 3 revealed that a cut-off value of 3.17 ng urinary vanin-1/mg urinary creatinine yielded an area under the curve, sensitivity, and specificity of 0.83 (P < 0.05), 75.0%, and 22.7%, respectively. The non-AKI incidence below the cut-off value of urinary vanin-1 of 3.17 ng/mg uCr was 89.5%.
Conclusion
Urinary vanin-1 is a superior minimally invasive biomarker for early prediction of CDDP-induced AKI.
Safety and Efficacy of Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors in Patients with Pre-treatment Reduced Left Ventricular Function
Authors: Tzuberi Maor , Brzezinski Rafael Y. , Flint Nir , Slieman Moaad , Zornitzki Lior , Viskin Dana , Hemed Anna Rozenfeld , Waissengrin Barliz , Barak Renana , Golomb Inbal , Wolf Ido , Topilsky Yan , Banai Shmuel , Kapusta Livia , Perl Michal Laufer
Published: December 2024

Aims: Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have revolutionized cancer treatment outcomes. However, the response varies across different populations, and their use may lead to life-threatening cardiovascular (CV) events. While pre-treatment reduced left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) is considered a marker for high-risk cardiotoxicity and a contraindication for anthracycline and HER2-targeted therapies, there is limited evidence on the safety and efficacy of ICIs therapy in patients presenting with pre-treatment reduced LVEF. The study aims to evaluate the safety and efficacy of ICIs therapy in patients with pre-treatment reduced LVEF.
Methods: Retrospective single center cohort of patients treated with ICIs therapy, who performed pre-treatment LVEF assessment. The primary endpoint was to evaluate the safety of ICIs among this population, assessed by CV events (composite of myocarditis, acute coronary syndrome, heart failure, and arrhythmias). The secondary endpoint was to evaluate the efficacy of ICIs, assessed by all-cause mortality and progression-free survival (PFS).
Results: The cohort included 307 patients, with 30 (10%) presenting with pre-treatment reduced LVEF, with a mean LVEF of 39±7%. While a significantly higher incidence of CV events was observed in the reduced LVEF group (37% vs. 14%, p=0.004), following a multivariate Cox regression analysis including baseline CV diseases and risk factors, pre-treatment reduced LVEF did not remain a significant independent predictor (p=0.635). No significant differences were observed between the groups regarding all-cause mortality and PFS.
Conclusions: Pre-treatment reduced LVEF was not identified as an independent marker for the safety and efficacy of ICIs therapy.
Palliative Endoscopic Treatment of Malignant Central Airway Obstruction
Authors: Bøgh Mads , Heinonen Sebastian , Larsen Dalia Gustaityté , Gade Søren , Schytte Sten , Pedersen Ulrik , Kjaergaard Thomas
Published: December 2024

Purpose: To examine the outcome of palliative endoscopic treatment of malignant central airway obstruction (CAO) and identify predictors for Days Alive and Out of Hospital (DAOH), overall survival and treatment related complications.
Methods: Consecutive adult patients treated endoscopically for malignant CAO at Aarhus University Hospital from 2012 to 2022 were included in the study. Statistical analyses were carried out to identify predictors for DAOH, survival and complications.
Results: 127 consecutive patients met the inclusion criteria. The majority of patients were categorised with stage IV lung cancer, the majority being males, with a median age of 67 years. The endoscopic interventions were mainly tumour debulking combined with airway stent insertion or tumour debulking alone. The complication rate was 21.0 % and the mortality rate was 3.9 %. In total, 89.8 % of the patients experienced symptom relief following surgery, and the majority (92.1 %) were discharged from hospital within two days after intervention. Mean survival time following intervention was 144 days, mean DAOH30 was 20.8 and mean DAOH365 was 157. Survival was associated with comorbidity, type of intervention, preoperative respiratory support and postoperative oncologic treatment. A high preoperative ASA-score, preoperative respiratory support, urgency of intervention, female gender and insertion of airway stent were predictors for a poorer DAOH-outcome.
Conclusion: Endoscopic palliative treatment of malignant CAO is generally feasible and safe, offering symptom relief in most cases. The method is considered an effective measure for short to median term palliation of respiratory distress.
A prospective, single-blinded, randomized controlled study on the effectiveness and safety of oral lactulose combined with carbohydrate-based clear fluids for bowel preparation in painless colonoscopy
Authors: Huang Chen , Liu Hongli , Luo Jing , Xu Zhe , Tian Xu , Li Jibin
Published: December 2024

Objective
This prospective, single-blinded, randomized controlled study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of lactulose combined with carbohydrate-based clear fluid for bowl preparation in painless colonoscopy procedures.
Methods
A total of 209 patients undergoing painless colonoscopy at Chongqing General Hospital between March and December 2023 were enrolled. Patients were randomly allocated into either the experimental (n = 104) or the control group (n = 105). The experimental group received lactulose (100-200ml) combined with carbohydrate-based clear fluid (800ml) and simethicone (12ml), while the control group received the standard reconstituted solution of polyethylene glycol electrolyte (3L) and simethicone (12ml). Outcomes assessed included the success rate of bowl preparation, safety, and willingness to repeat the bowel cleaning regime.
Results
There was no significant difference in the overall incidence of adverse reactions between the groups (33.7% vs. 40%). The success rate of bowel preparation was similar between the experimental and control groups (96.2% vs. 97.1%). The change in blood glucose levels before and after bowel preparation was significantly lower in the experimental group (0.01 mmol/L vs. 0.23 mmol/L). Patient willingness to repeat the bowel preparation regimen was also similar (96.2% vs. 95.2%). Subgroup analysis of high-risk patients showed no significant differences between the two groups in all outcomes.
Conclusion
Lactulose combined with carbohydrate-based clear fluid is a well-tolerated and comfortable regimen for bowel preparation, achieving high rates of preparation success and lesion detection comparable to polyethylene glycol electrolyte solutions.
Trial registration:
The study protocol was registered on the Chinese Clinical Trial Registry platform on Jun 20, 2022, with the register number of ChiCTR2200062035.
Community-based pathogen-specific incidence of influenza-like illness due to respiratory viruses in South-central Vietnam in 2009–2012, after a pandemic of influenza A viruses
Authors: Takahashi Kensuke , Tsuzuki Shinya , Le Minh Nhat , Anh Nguyen Hien , Anh Dang Duc , Ariyoshi Koya , Yoshida Lay-Myint
Published: December 2024

Background.
Influenza-like illness (ILI) is one of the most common illnesses caused by various respiratory viruses and brings high expense to household directly or indirectly. However, the pathogen-specific incidence and health-seeking behaviour in communities is not well described.
Method.
A longitudinal cohort study using a self-recorded health calendar among 1,000 households was performed in South-central Vietnam from October 2009 to September 2012. Endemic respiratory viruses in the community were monitored by random sampling in polyclinics. Monthly incidence of specific pathogens was calculated using Bayesian method.
Findings.
Among 5,016 household members, 3,687 ILI episodes were reported during study period. Monthly incidence of ILI was 21.7 (95% confidence interval 21.0–22.4) per 1,000 population for all ages and highest in children under 2 years old with 71.6 (64.7–81.8) followed by 2–4 years old with 71.3 (65.8–78.2). Rhinovirus had the highest incidence with 22.5 among the age under 2 years, followed by adenovirus and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) with 12.5 and 9.9, respectively. The majority of individuals sought treatment from drug stores rather than healthcare facilities except for younger children. RSV outbreaks significantly increase the numbers of health care visit among children under 2 years but not in older age groups.
Interpretation.
Several surges of ILI were attributed by multiple respiratory viruses. Health care seeking patterns were varied by pathogens. Highly transmissible viruses like rhinovirus and adenovirus have potential risk of next pandemic.
An education intervention in gastrointestinal healthcare workers improves knowledge of sexual and gender minority digestive health
Authors: Goldowsky Alexander , Clukey Jenna , Streed Carl , Paul Sonali , Vélez Christopher
Published: December 2024

Background
Sexual and gender minority (SGM) communities experience barriers in accessing healthcare. While literature exists in remedying SGM-related knowledge deficits in primary care, none exists for gastroenterology specialists.
Aims
We detail a two-site experience with a focused education intervention for gastrointestinal healthcare workers on SGM digestive health.
Methods
Gastroenterology and hepatology physicians, nurses, trainees, and staff at two academic medical centers participated. A 10- question pre-test and Likert scale questions on competence in caring for sexual and gender minority patients was given. Participants then attended a lecture about SGM digestive health. After, they completed a post-test and 6-month follow-up assessment. Pre- and post-test averages of correct answers were compared to assess objective knowledge acquisition and identify gaps in knowledge.
Results
Of 368 eligible participants, 143 (39.0%) completed the pre-test, 79 completed the post-test, and 93 completed 6-month follow-up. Pre-test average correct responses was 61%, while post-test correct responses increased to 70% (p < 0.001). At 6-month follow-up, average percent correct was 66% (p = 0.027 compared to pre-test). Competence caring for SGM patients improved from 3.62 to 3.99. (1 = strongly disagree, 5 = strongly agree; p = .033). This persisted at 6 months (average 4.07, p = .007).
Conclusions
A lecture-based intervention results in significant and sustained improvement in competence and knowledge surrounding digestive healthcare in SGM patients. This can be used as a starting point for curricular development at all medical education levels. Doing so may allow for more culturally inclusive care to be provided to SGM communities and foster cultural humility.
Clustering of >145,000 Symptom Logs Reveals Distinct Pre, Peri, and Post Menopausal Phenotypes
Authors: Aras Shravan G. , Grant Azure D. , Konhilas John P.
Published: December 2024

Background and Objectives:
The transition to menopause is associated with disappearance of menstrual cycle symptoms and emergence of vasomotor symptoms. Although menopausal women report a variety of mood, digestive, and pain symptoms, it remains unclear which emerge prior to menopause, if symptoms occur in predictable clusters, how these clusters change from across the menopausal transition, or if distinct phenotypes are present within each life stage.
Methods
We present an analysis of symptoms in premenopausal to menopausal women using the MenoLife app, which includes 4,789 individuals (23% premenopausal, 29% perimenopausal, 48% menopausal) and 147,501 symptom logs (19% premenopausal, 39% perimenopausal, 42% menopausal). Clusters generated from logs of 45 different symptoms were assessed for similarities across methods: hierarchical clustering analysis (HCA), K-Means clustering of principal components of symptom reports, and binomial network analysis. Participants were further evaluated based on menstrual cycle regularity or natural versus medically induced menopause.
Results
Menstrual cycle-associated symptoms (e.g., cramps, breast swelling), digestive, mood, and integumentary symptoms were characteristic of premenopause. Vasomotor symptoms, pain, mood, and cognitive symptoms were characteristic of menopause. Perimenopausal women exhibited both menstrual cycle-associated and vasomotor symptoms. Subpopulations across life stages presented with additional correlated mood and cognitive, integumentary, digestive, nervous, or sexual complaints. Symptoms also differed among women depending on the reported regularity of their menstrual cycles or the way in which they entered menopause. Notably, we identified a set of symptoms that were very common across life stages: fatigue, headache, anxiety, and brain fog. Finally, we consistently identified the lack of predictive power of hot flashes for other symptoms except night sweats.
Conclusions
Together, premenopausal women exhibit menstrual cycle-associated symptoms and menopausal women reported vasomotor symptoms, perimenopausal women report both; and all report high rates of fatigue, headache, anxiety, and brain fog. Limiting focus of menopausal treatment to vasomotor symptoms, or to premenstrual syndrome in premenopausal women, neglects a large proportion of overall symptom burden. Future interventions targeting mood and cognition, digestion, and the integumentary system are needed across stages of female reproductive life.
λ-cyhalothrin induced sex-specific inflammation, glia activation and GABAergic interneuron disruption in the hippocampus of rats
Authors: Imam Aminu , Oyegbola Christianah , Busari Maryam , Gbemisola Adewumi Mercy , Abubakar Laaro , Odunayo Ajala Taofeeqoh , Attai Alhassan Godwin , Iyiola Ajibola Musa , Imam Wahab Abdulmajeed , Akorede Aalimah Akinosho , Ijomone Omamuyovwi Meashack , Ajao Moyosore Salihu
Published: December 2024

Background
Glia mediated neuroinflammation and degeneration of inhibitory
GABAergic interneurons are some of the hall marks of pyrethroid
neurotoxicity. Here we investigated the sex specific responses of
inflammatory cytokines, microglia, astrocyte and parvalbumin
positive inhibitory GABAergic interneurons to λ-cyhalothrin (LCT)
exposures in rats.

Methods
Equal numbers of male and female rats were given oral corn oil,
2 mg/kg.bw and 4 mg/kg.bw of LCT for fourteen days. They were
euthanized on day 15, brains were excised and hippocampus
(n = 5/group) isolated for interleukin 1 beta (IL-1β) and tumor
necrotic factor alpha (TNF-α) analysis. The remaining brains
(n = 3/group) were processed for Ionized calcium binding adaptor
molecule 1 (Iba1), glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) and
parvalbumin (PV) expressions in the hippocampus. All quantitative
data was subjected to one way analysis of variance (ANOVA).

Results
LCT caused sex and dose dependent increase in IL-1β and TNF-α
concentrations, activated microglia (IBA1+) and reactive astrocyte
(GFAP+) expressions, but depleted PV + GABAergic interneurons.
These effects were greater in males compared to females, and
dose-dependent in both sexes.

Conclusion
LCT specifically induced inflammation and disrupted GABAergic
interneurons’ integrities via activation of microglia and reactive
astrogliosis and such effects are dose-dependent and sexually
dimorphic.