bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of the regulation of the New Brazilian Forest Code on Health: evidence based on respiratory diseases and deforestation in the Legal Amazon
Authors: Costa Edward Martins , Nascimento José Alex Bento do , Khan Ahmad Saeed , Irffi Guilherme , de Araujo Jair Andrade
Published: January 2024

In 2012, the Brazilian government implemented the New Forest Code, an update to the previous code, aiming to contain deforestation and promote the sustainable use of forest resources. However, regarding the Legal Amazon region, more rigorous requirements and instruments are needed. In this context, this study measured the impact of this policy on respiratory disease hospitalizations caused by deforestation. From the estimates found with the difference-in-differences method, based on panel data between 2000 and 2019, increases in respiratory disease hospitalizations and in deforestation occurred after the enactment of this policy, possibly due to rural private properties not complying with the code, but also to deforestation on public lands. The results also suggest that the underlying mechanism of these effects was the fragile compliance with the restrictions and regulations established by the current forest code, which is the main instrument to combat deforestation in Brazil.
JEL Code: C1, I1, Q12, Q23, Q50, Q56.
Classification of fish freshness using a convolutional neural network
Authors: Flores Edwin Wilson Mamani , Huisa Roger Pedraza
Published: January 2024

At work, the freshness of rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) was analyzed, this aspect being very important to determine its quality. The objective is to propose a computational model based on a CNN to classify the freshness of the trout based on changes in the color of their eyes and gills. For this purpose, a dataset of images with acquired trout was created. To obtain the results, three experiments were conducted: the first with 2 classes (days 1 and 9), the second with 3 classes (days 1, 5, and 9), and the third with 5 classes (days 1, 3, 5, 7, and 9). All experiments were carried out in Google Colab. The results were validated using a confusion matrix ROC curve. The best results were obtained by the ResNeXt5032x4d model, with 2 classes achieving an accuracy of 0.9833, with 3 classes an accuracy of 0.9222, and with 5 classes an accuracy of 0.8800.
Multi-polygenic score prediction of mathematics, reading, and language abilities independent of general cognitive ability
Authors: Procopio Francesca , Liao Wangjingyi , Rimfeld Kaili , Malanchini Margherita , von Stumm Sophie , Allegrini Andrea , Plomin Robert
Published: January 2024

Specific cognitive abilities (SCA) correlate genetically about 0.50, which underpins general cognitive ability (g), but it also means that there is considerable genetic specificity. If g is not controlled, then genomic prediction of specific cognitive abilities is not truly specific because they are all perfused with g. Here, we investigated the heritability of mathematics, reading, and language ability independent of g (SCA.g) using twins and DNA, and the extent to which multiple genome-wide polygenic scores (multi-PGS) can jointly predict these SCA.g as compared to SCA uncorrected for g. We created SCA and SCA.g composites from a battery of 14 cognitive tests administered at age 12 to 5,000 twin pairs in the Twins Early Development Study (TEDS). Univariate twin analyses yielded an average heritability estimate of 40% for SCA.g, compared to 53% for uncorrected SCA. Using genome-wide SNP genotypes, average SNP-based heritabilities were 26% for SCA.g and 35% for SCA. We then created multi-PGS from at least 50 PGS to predict each SCA and SCA.g using elastic net penalised regression models. Multi-PGS predicted 4.4% of the variance of SCA.g on average, compared to 11.1% for SCA uncorrected for g. The twin, SNP and PGS heritability estimates for SCA.g provide further evidence that the heritabilities of SCA are not merely a reflection of g. Although the relative reduction in heritability from SCA to SCA.g was greater for PGS heritability than for twin or SNP heritability, this decrease is likely due to the paucity of PGS for SCA. We hope that these results encourage researchers to conduct genome-wide association studies of SCA, and especially SCA.g, that can be used to predict PGS profiles of SCA strengths and weaknesses independent of g.
Cognitive and Psychiatric Relevance of
Dynamic Functional Connectivity States in a Large (N>10,000) Children Population
Authors: Fu Zening , Sui Jing , Iraji Armin , Liu Jingyu , Calhoun Vince
Published: January 2024

Children’s brains dynamically adapt to the stimuli from the internal state and the external environment, allowing for changes in cognitive and mental behavior. In this work, we performed a large-scale analysis of dynamic functional connectivity (DFC) in children aged 9 ~ 11 years, investigating how brain dynamics relate to cognitive performance and mental health at an early age. A hybrid independent component analysis framework was applied to the Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development (ABCD) data containing 10,988 children. We combined a sliding-window approach with k-means clustering to identify five brain states with distinct DFC patterns. Interestingly, the occurrence of a strongly connected state was negatively correlated with cognitive performance and positively correlated with dimensional psychopathology in children. Meanwhile, opposite relationships were observed for a sparsely connected state. The composite cognitive score and the ADHD score were the most significantly correlated with the DFC states. The mediation analysis further showed that attention problems mediated the effect of DFC states on cognitive performance. This investigation unveils the neurological underpinnings of DFC states, which suggests that tracking the transient dynamic connectivity may help to characterize cognitive and mental problems in children and guide people to provide early intervention to buffer adverse influences.
Sonophotocatalysis for enhanced extraction of corn cob xylan and simultaneous production of Xylose and Xylooligosaccharides
Authors: Rohini B , Hebbar Umesh
Published: January 2024

This study aims at evaluating the synergistic effect of Sonophotocatalysis (SP) for enhanced extraction of corncob xylan. The effect of different pretreatment methods namely Sonocatalysis (US+ZnO), Photocatalysis (PC), Ultrasonication at 20 % amplitude (US 20) and Sonophotocatalysis at amplitude of 20% (SP 20) were studied. Amongst, SP 20 resulted in two folds and five folds enhanced xylan extraction compared to US 20 and PC, respectively. Further, the results from the studies performed with varying sonication amplitude and extraction about 90.1±1.8 % of CCB xylan could be extracted within 15 min with SP 90. This reaction condition resulted in 14.59±1 % of xylose and 84.5±2.01 % of total XOS relative to the initial xylan content. From our study it was evident that combination of US and PC resulted in enhanced extraction of CCB xylan with reduced time and mild reaction condition without the use of additional chemicals. Further the extracted xylan was simultaneously hydrolyzed into xylose and XOS of DP (2-4) i.e X2, X3 and X4. The present study showed that SP could be a promising method for one pot production of XOS and xylose from CCB xylan.
Understanding the Challenges and Opportunities in sustaining health interventions during the transition from external assistance: A Case study of the Output-Based Voucher Scheme in Kenya
Authors: Onyango Joseph Odhiambo , Ogira Dosila , Murunga Annette , Kokwaro Gilbert
Published: January 2024

Background
Kenya's economic shift has transformed donor aid in healthcare, prompting an examination of its ability to maintain health intervention coverage without donor funding. The study focuses on the Output Based Approach (OBA) Voucher Programme (2005–2015), investigating subsidized safe motherhood services for the economically disadvantaged.
Methods
Utilizing a mixed-methods approach, we used a single group Interrupted Time Series design to analyse quantitative data from the District Health Information System (DHIS2) between January 2012 and December 2018. Thematic analysis of qualitative data from key informant interviews provided additional insights.
Findings:
Post-donor funding cessation, notable declines in key indicators were observed. Committed political leadership, increased funding, and initiatives like Universal Health Coverage (Linda Mama) countered these declines. Initially marked by challenges like corruption, implementation hurdles were systematically addressed through phased strategies, bilateral agreements, and supportive policies. Stakeholder engagement, initially lacking, improved through sustained interaction with key actors and the government.
Conclusion
The study underscores the need to fortify health system capacity and highlights the critical role of supportive policy frameworks in sustaining health intervention coverage. These insights offer valuable guidance for policymakers aiming to enhance sustainability in Kenya and analogous contexts, especially amid declining external funding.
Associations between common genetic variants and income provide insights about the socioeconomic health gradient
Authors: Koellinger Philipp D , Kweon Hyeokmoon , Burik Casper , Ning Yuchen , Ahlskog Rafael , Xia Charley , Abner Erik , Bao Yanchun , Bhatta Laxmi , Faquih Tariq , de Feijter Maud , Fisher Paul , Gelemanović Andrea , Giannelis Alexandros , Hottenga Jouke-Jan , Khalili Bita , Lee Yunsung , Li-Gao Ruifang , Masso Jaan , Myhre Ronny , Palviainen Teemu , Rietveld Cornelius , Teumer Alexander , Verweij Resnke , Willoughby Emily , Agerbo Esben , Bergmann Sven , Boomsma D , Borglum Anders , Brumpton Ben , Davies Neil , Esko Tõnu , Gordon Scott , Homuth Georg , Ikram M. Arfan , Johannesson Magnus , Kaprio Jaakko , Kidd Michael , Kutalik Zoltán , Kwong Alex , Lee James , Luik Annemarie , Magnus Per , Marques-Vidal Pedro , Martin Nicholas , Mook-Kanamori Dennis , Mortensen Preben , Oskarsson Sven , Pedersen Emil , Polašek Ozren , Rosendaal Frits , Smart Melissa , Snieder Harold , Most Peter van der , Vollenweider Peter , Völzke Henry , Willemsen Gonneke , Beauchamp Jonathan , DiPrete Thomas , Linnér Richard Karlsson , Lu Qiongshi , Morris Tim , Okbay Aysu , Harden K , Abdellaoui Abdel , Hill William , de Vlaming Ronald , Benjamin Daniel
Published: January 2024

We conducted a genome-wide association study (GWAS) on income among individuals of European descent and leveraged the results to investigate the socio-economic health gradient (N=668,288). We found 162 genomic loci associated with a common genetic factor underlying various income measures, all with small effect sizes. Our GWAS-derived polygenic index captures 1 - 4% of income variance, with only one-fourth attributed to direct genetic effects. A phenome-wide association study using this polygenic index showed reduced risks for a broad spectrum of diseases, including hypertension, obesity, type 2 diabetes, coronary atherosclerosis, depression, asthma, and back pain. The income factor showed a substantial genetic correlation (0.92, s.e. = .006) with educational attainment (EA). Accounting for EA's genetic overlap with income revealed that the remaining genetic signal for higher income related to better mental health but reduced physical health benefits and increased participation in risky behaviours such as drinking and smoking.
MicroRNAs underlying the antidepressant effect of psilocybin – Establishing an nCounter pipeline for microRNA-quantification in the pig brain
Authors: Kaadt Erik , Søkilde Rolf , Hansen Hanne , Raval Nakul , Lundgaard Lene , Just Jesper , Knudsen Gitte , Elfving Betina
Published: January 2024

Novel treatment strategies are needed to overcome some of the current challenges related to treatment resistance and treatment latency within the psychiatric field. Recently, psilocybin has shown promise as a novel treatment of major depressive disorder. A single dose of psilocybin is associated with lasting changes in personality and mood. In parallel, various studies have indicated that microRNAs (miRNAs) are regulated after antidepressive interventions. Here, pigs were used to study the transcriptional profiles of miRNAs in the prefrontal cortex (PFC) and hippocampus (HIP), 1 day and 1 week after a single dose of psilocybin. A streamlined process was developed to adapt the Nanostring nCounter technology, specifically the Human v3b miRNA Assay panel, for compatibility with pig tissue samples. The mirmachine tool was used to select miRNAs with complete human-pig sequence conservation to make a conservative reannotation of pig microRNAs. Furthermore, different normalization strategies were employed. Utilizing this pipeline, dysregulation of 12 miRNAs in the PFC and 2 miRNAs in the HIP was ∂identified 1 day after psilocybin administration. Seven days after psilocybin administration, only 4 dysregulated miRNAs were observed in the HIP. Among the 18 identified miRNAs, 9 have previously been linked to depression. Notably, miR-212-3p and miR-107 displayed robust acute regulation across all four normalization strategies in the PFC. The two miRNAs are known to exert anti-inflammatory effects, mirroring previously reported effects of psilocybin. These results suggest that psilocybin may exert its acute and sustained molecular effects through the regulation of specific miRNAs in core brain areas of depression.
Water scarcity mitigation through water security plan - A case study from Shivpuri district in Madhya Pradesh, India
Authors: Chintalapudi Padmakar , Khadse Gajanan , Pujari Paras , Ram Raghuvanshi , Labhasetwar Pawan
Published: January 2024

The Shivpuri district of Madhya Pradesh in central India faces severe scarcity of water for drinking and other purposes during summer season. This situation prevailed due to compounded hydrogeological conditions with less precipitation and over exploitation of groundwater for irrigation needs. To address the water scarcity issue, a village water security plan (WSP) is prepared at a micro-watershed level for drought prone villages in Shivpuri tehsil of Shivpuri district in Madhya Pradesh. The plan entails about water sources and their utilization in a sustainable manner to cater the water requirements in the area. The study reveals that groundwater (GW) extraction excessively exceeds the groundwater recharge and it leads to depletion of groundwater level. Out of the total available groundwater, about 98% is used for irrigation and 2% for household purposes. The groundwater stage development above 100% indicates the over exploitation of groundwater, and the study area comes under critical category. The physico-chemical parameters of the groundwater are within the permissible limits as per BIS standards. The remote sensing data were used for thematic mapping to prepare a water security plan for augmentation of groundwater in the area. The study reveals that the organized scientific surveys facilitate in improvement of existing groundwater resources which can fulfill the requirements of local people.
A Case Report of Statin-Induced Fluctuations in Carcinoembryonic Antigen (CEA) Levels in a Breast Cancer Survivor
Authors: Alizadehasl Azin , Aliabadi Azam Yalameh , Jebelli Seyedeh Fatemeh Hosseini , Forati Sarah , Zonooz Yasamin Afsari
Published: January 2024

Introduction:This case report explores the unique fluctuations of carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) levels in a breast cancer survivor following statin therapy, contributing to the body of knowledge by documenting a potential drug interaction not commonly recognized in medical literature.
Patient's Main Concerns and Clinical Findings: A 63-year-old female breast cancer survivor presented with significant CEA level elevations post-initiation of atorvastatin for cardiovascular screening, which was not explained by conventional diagnostic assessments.
Primary Diagnoses, Interventions, and Outcomes: The primary intervention was the administration of atorvastatin, which coincided with the rise in CEA levels, followed by a marked decrease upon drug cessation, suggesting a statin-induced effect.
Conclusion:The case highlights the necessity for clinicians to be aware of the potential for statins to affect tumor markers like CEA, advocating for personalized monitoring and consideration of such interactions in cancer survivorship care. Further investigation into statin-induced CEA fluctuations is recommended to understand the implications for cancer surveillance and management.
Environmental exposures associated with atopy in a rural community in Gwanda district, Zimbabwe: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Ndlovu Vuyelwa , Chimbari Moses , Ndarukwa Pisirai , Sibanda Elopy
Published: January 2024

Background
The increasing prevalence of allergic diseases in Zimbabwe may be attributed to changing environmental exposure patterns. In this study, we sought to identify the most influential environmental and lifestyle factors that may explain the observed atopy in a rural community in Zimbabwe.
Methods
Using a cross-sectional study, information on a wide array of environmental and lifestyle exposures was self-reported by a sample of participants (children aged < 18 years and adults aged ≥ 18 years) in the Gwanda district, Zimbabwe. To consenting participants, we performed skin prick testing (SPT) at a local clinic in Gwanda district to identify atopic individuals. Variables with a p value < 0.25 from univariate analysis were included in backward-elimination multiple logistic regression analysis. Separate regression analyses were conducted for children (n = 108), adults (n = 388), and a subgroup of adults whoreported ever being employed in any potentially harmful occupation (n =153).
Results
Compared with boys, girls were more likely to be sensitised to at least one allergen (OR= 4.87, 95% CI=1.22-19.51). Among adults, the likelihood of sensitisation increased with increasing age (OR= 1.02, 95% CI=1.01-1.03) and with a history of bloody urine and/or schistosomiasis (OR=2.20, 95% CI=0.98-4.95). In the subgroup of adults whoreported ever being employed in any potentially harmful occupation, atopic sensitisation was associated with a history of tuberculosis (TB)(OR= 3.37, 95% CI=1.08-10.52) and a history of bloody urine and/or schistosomiasis (OR=4.36, 95% CI=1.40-13.65). Other notable, though not significant, factors were passive or parental smoking, alcohol consumption, indoor dampness and visible mould on walls.
Conclusion
Risk factors for atopy included age, sex, passive smoking, alcohol consumption, indoor dampness, visible mould, and history of TB, bloody urine or schistosomiasis. Exposure to harmful pollutants typically found in occupational settings coupled with a history of TB or helminth infection particularly increased the likelihood of atopy amongadults. Longitudinal studies to explore the temporal and causal relationships between these factors and allergic outcomes areessential. There is a need for early public health interventions to address environmental and lifestyle factors for the prevention and control of allergic diseases in African rural communities.
Prevalence, risk factors, and adverse perinatal outcomes in Chinese women with pre-eclampsia: a large retrospective cohort study
Authors: Wu Kaiqi , Li Shuai , Yin Binin , Zhu Xiaojun , Zhu Bo
Published: January 2024

Background
Pre-eclampsia (PE) is the primary cause of maternal and neonatal morbidity and mortality. However, comprehensive studies on the related risk factors with PE and its effects on adverse perinatal outcomes are limited.
Methods
We conducted a retrospective cohort study from January 1, 2018, to December 31, 2019, which enrolled 38,496 women without pre-eclampsia (non-PE) and 1130 women with PE. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression models were used to determine the risk factors and adverse perinatal outcomes of PE.
Results
Multivariate logistic regression models showed that maternal age > 35 years, pp-BMI overweight/obesity, excessive gestational weight gain, multiparity, twin pregnancy, IVF, cesarean section history, times of abortion history ≥ 2, GDM, and ICP were significantly associated with the risk of PE (all P < 0.05). Women with PE in singleton pregnancies were associated with an increased risk of maternal outcomes of cesarean section, and preterm birth, and a higher risk of neonatal outcomes of stillbirth, low birth weight, fetal distress, neonatal asphyxia, and neonatal unit admission, which were also observed in women with PE in twin pregnancies, except for stillbirth and neonatal asphyxia.
Conclusions
This study identified the risk factors and associated adverse perinatal outcomes of PE, which providing comprehensive evidence for clinicians to manage women at risk of PE.
Chromosome-scale Genome Assembly of the Alloenneaploid Arundo donax
Authors: Ren Mengmeng , Han Xiaohong , Liu Fupeng , Wu Daohong , Peng Hai
Published: January 2024

Arundo donax L (A. donax). is a promising energy crop with high biomass and wide adaptability, while lack of reference genome limiting the genetic improvement of this crop. Here, we report the first chromosome-scale assembly of A. donax genome using Pacbio SMRT sequencing and Hi-C technology. The genome size of this assembly is 1.30 Gb with contig N50 33.15 Mb. A total of 74,403 gene models were predicted, of which over 90% of genes were functionally annotated. Karyotype analysis and synteny analysis revealed that A. donaxis an alloenneaploid (3n = 9x = 108). Comparative genome analysis indicated that A. donax has undergone strong gene family expansion and two whole-genome duplication events during evolution. Based on the genome assembly, we mined numerous salinity stress related genes using public RNA-seq data. The genome assembly we provided in this study will enhance genetic understanding and promote the genetic improvement of A. donax.
Prospect of Peat as an Energy Source from Hakaluki Haor, Sylhet and Moulvibazar, Bangladesh
Authors: Masum Mohammed , Khan Mohammad Omer Faruk
Published: January 2024

Prospect of Peat as an Energy Source from Hakaluki Haor, Moulvibazar, Bangladesh

Mohammed Masum1 and Mohammad Omer Faruk Khan1

1Geological Survey of Bangladesh, Dhaka, Bangladesh
Corresponding author’s E-mail: masum613@yahoo.com

Abstract

Peat has been found in many places of Bangladesh in numerous wetlands or beels or shallow deep water body. The Hakaluki Haor is one of the largest wetlands of Bangladesh and huge amount of peat has been discovered here. This haor belongs to the northeastern synclinal haor basin and bounded on its eastern and western sides by anticlines receiving huge amount of water in the wet period. Thus, a swampy environment is formed allowing the growth of different tree species which ultimately gave rise to peat deposits. The peat occurs in the shallow depth and found almost everywhere in the haor. A total of 59 peat samples have been analyzed for proximate properties collected from all over the haor by auger boring method. The moisture content, volatile matter and ash content of peat is very low; the mean value being 10.68 %, 34.6 %., 33.85 respectively. These values are of very good grade compared to lignite. Although the calorific value is much lower than the lignite and other low grade fuels the volume of peat is far greater than the other fuels and peat can be extracted at huge numbers. Moreover, there might be prospect of alternative methods such as peat gasification, peat gas methane which are environment friendly. Further research is much needed to evaluate the potential of peat to meet the energy demand in the future.

Keywords: Peat, Gasification, Energy, Methane.
Associations among Drug Acquisition and Use Behaviors, Psychosocial Attributes, and Opioid-Involved Overdoses: A SEM Analysis
Authors: Swartz James A. , Zhao Peipei , Jacobucci Ross , Watson Dennis , Mackesy-Amiti Mary Ellen , Franceschini Dana , Jimenez A. David
Published: January 2024

Aims
This study sought to develop and assess an exploratory model of how demographic and psychosocial attributes, and drug use or acquisition behaviors interact to affect opioid-involved overdoses.
Methods
We conducted exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis (EFA/CFA) to identify a factor structure for ten drug acquisition and use behaviors. We then evaluated alternative structural equation models incorporating the identified factors, adding demographic and psychosocial attributes as predictors of past-year opioid overdose. We used interview data collected for two studies recruiting opioid-misusing participants receiving services from a community-based syringe service program. The first investigated current attitudes toward drug-checking (N = 150). The second was an RCT assessing a telehealth versus in-person medical appointment for opioid use disorder treatment referral (N = 270). Demographics included gender, age, race/ethnicity, education, and socioeconomic status. Psychosocial measures were homelessness, psychological distress, and trauma. Self-reported drug-related risk behaviors included using alone, having a new supplier, using opioids with benzodiazepines/alcohol, and preferring fentanyl. Past-year opioid-involved overdoses were dichotomized into experiencing none or any.
Results
The EFA/CFA revealed a two-factor structure with one factor reflecting drug acquisition and the second drug use behaviors. The selected model (CFI = .984, TLI = .981, RMSEA = .024) accounted for 13.1% of overdose probability variance. A latent variable representing psychosocial attributes was indirectly associated with an increase in past-year overdose probability (𝛽=.234, p = .001), as mediated by the EFA/CFA identified latent variables: drug acquisition (𝛽=.683, p < .001) and drug use (𝛽=.567, p = .001). Drug use behaviors (𝛽=.287, p = .04) but not drug acquisition (𝛽=.105, p = .461) also had a significant, positive direct effect on past-year overdose. No demographic attributes were significant direct or indirect overdose predictors.
Conclusions
Psychosocial attributes, particularly homelessness, increase the probability of an overdose through associations with risky drug acquisition and drug-using behaviors. To increase effectiveness, prevention efforts might address the interacting overdose risks that span multiple functional domains.
Understanding the responses of tillering to 2,4-D in Setaria viridis L
Authors: Xiong Wangdan , Jia Xinfeng , Wang Qixin , Zhong Nina , Gao Hanchi , Zhang Lingxin , Sun Juan
Published: January 2024

Background
Green foxtail [Setaria viridis (L.)] is one of the most abundant and troublesome annual grass weeds in alfalfa fields in Northeast China. Synthetic auxin herbicide is widely used in agriculture, while how auxin herbicide affects tillering on perennial grass weeds is still unclear. A greenhouse experiment was conducted to examine the effects of auxin herbicides 2,4-D on green foxtail growth, especially on tillers.
Results
In the study, 2,4-D isooctyl ester was used and there was an inhibition of plant height and fresh weight on green foxtail after application. The photosynthetic rate was dramatically reduced and there was an accumulation of MDA content. Moreover, applicating 2,4-D isooctyl ester significantly reduced the tillering buds at rates between 2100 and 8400 ga. i. ha-1. Transcriptome results showed that applying 2,4-D on leaves can affect the phytohormone signal transduction pathways in plant tillers. Among them, there were significant effects on auxin, cytokinin, abscisic acid, gibberellin, and brassinosteroid signaling. Indeed, external ABA and GA on leaves can also limit tillering in green foxtail.
Conclusions
These data will be helpful to further understand the responses of green foxtail to 2, 4-D isooctyl ester, which may provide a unique perspective for the development and identification of new target compounds that are effective against this weed species.
Evaluation of antimicrobial and antioxidant effect of biosynthesized silver nanoparticles from Sapindus mukorossi pericarp extract
Authors: sharma vivek , Thakur Sapna , sharma Sneh
Published: January 2024

The present study is focused on the biosynthesis of silver nanoparticles from Sapindus mukorossi pericarp extract. In this research, silver nitrate was used as a precursor and S. mukorossi pericarp extract was used as a reducing agent for synthesis of nanoparticles. The obtained silver nanoparticles were characterized using UV-Vis spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform electron microscopy (FTIR) and High-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HR-TEM). The UV-Vis spectra and visual observation showed that the color of pericarp extract of S. mukorossi turned from golden yellow to dark brown after the addition of AgNO3 precursor and showed the highest absorption peak at 410 nm. In addition, XRD pattern revealed the face-centered cubic structure of silver nanoparticles. The FTIR measurements confirmed the presence of different functional groups within the extract that were directly involved in the reduction and stability of biosynthesized silver nanoparticles. HR-TEM images revealed the particles to be nearly spherical with a few irregular shapes and particles size ranging from 5 to 50 nm. The study highlights the antimicrobial activity of silver nanoparticles that were tested against gram negative bacterium viz., Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Escherichia coli and gram-positive bacterium Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus subtilis. The results confirmed that the prepared silver nanoparticles showed antimicrobial potential against all the tested microorganisms. The antioxidant potential of aqueous extract and biosynthesized silver nanoparticles was also evaluated using DPPH (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl) method and revealed the antioxidant activity.
Novel evaluation of clinical outcomes of focal therapy with high-intensity focused ultrasound for the patients with localized prostate cancer using win ratio analysis: A propensity score matched comparison of robot-assisted radical prostatectomy
Authors: Teramoto Asuka , Sakamaki Kentaro , Shoji Sunao , Uemura Kohei
Published: January 2024

Background
The objective of the present study was to compare the comprehensive clinical outcomes of focal therapy (FT) and robot-assisted radical prostatectomy (RARP) in patients with localized prostate cancer (PC) using a win ratio analysis.
Methods
Ninety patients who were treated with FT with high-intensity focused ultrasound and 254 patients who were treated with RARP for localized PC were evaluated. After propensity score matching, a win ratio analysis, in which the composite endpoints of failure-free survival (FFS) and the urinary domain of the Expanded Prostate Cancer Index Composite (EPIC) were analyzed, was used for the comparison of the clinical outcomes of FT and RARP for localized PC.
Results
Seventy-two patients were included in each group after propensity score matching. FFS was not significantly different between the groups (p = 0.5044) after 36 months of follow-up. In contrast, the score of the urinary domain of the EPIC in the FT group was significantly better than that in the RARP group (p < 0.0001). The win ratio of FT per RARP was 3.39 (p < 0.0001; 95% confidence interval: 2.21–5.20), suggesting a higher comprehensive outcome in the FT group than in the RARP group.
Conclusions
The win ratio analysis showed the superiority of comprehensive outcomes of FT to RARP for selected patients with localized PC during short-term follow-up in single institution. Although further randomized trial with long-term follow-up would be needed for the evaluation, the win ratio would be useful to analyze the efficacy of FT according to patient preferences comprehensively.
Under ARMOUR - Donning and doffing of Personal Protective Equipment for simulated CPR of COVID-19 patients
Authors: Kraus Susan , Macherey Romana , Rimkus Lukas , Tschudin-Sutter Sarah , Marsch Stephan , Sellmann Timur
Published: January 2024

Background
Personal protective equipment (PPE) protects healthcare workers and patients. Data on guideline compliance on how to dress (donning) or remove (doffing) PPE and the effect of monitoring (buddying) are limited. This study assesses the quality of donning, doffing, and buddying of PPE in a simulated medical emergency.
Method
Physicians handling a simulated cardiac arrest of a COVID-19 patient. Adjacent to the victim, PPE (FFP2 masks, gowns, caps, protective eyewear, gloves) was available. Data analysis was performed on video recordings. The primary outcome was the number and timing of participants being appropriately protected, defined as both wearing a) all PPE items provided, and b) all PPE items correctly at the time of first patient contact (FPC). Secondary outcomes included compliance with doffing and buddying. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS (version 28). Mann–Whitney test, Chi-square test, and linear regression analysis were performed as appropriate.
Results
At first patient contact 91/437 (21%) were correctly protected while 306/437 (70%) were partially incorrectly protected. One or more PPE items were missing in 62/437 (15%). Overall donning time was 63 (52–74) seconds, the time interval between donning start and FPC was 66 (55–78) sec. Time to FPC was longer in correctly than in incorrectly protected participants (77 [66–87] vs 64 [54–75] sec; P < 0.0001) and decreased by 7 ± 2 seconds per PPE item omitted (P = 0.002). Correct doffing was observed in 192/345 (56%), buddying in 120 participants (27%).
Conclusions
Our findings imply a need for education in correct and timely PPE donning and doffing. Donning PPE as intended delayed FPC. This and the influence of buddying needs further investigation (German study register number DRKS00023184).
Solitary Splenic Metastasis from Rectal Cancer; A case report and literature review.
Authors: Albahkali Salha M.
Published: January 2024

Abstract:
Background: Metastasis to the spleen is rarely seen on imaging and has been little reported in the literature, requires for early diagnosis and a surveillance staging protocol to get a guide for management at the onset of metastatic diseases, and it can occur at the advanced stages of the disease or posttreatment follow-up evaluation.
Case Presentation: A 59-year-old Saudi female patient diagnosed with rectal adenocarcinoma with metachronous metastatic hepatic and splenic lesions. Clinical examination of the abdomen was rigid with the development of splenomegaly. post-chemotherapy and laparoscopic-assisted diverting colostomy. She has high (CEA) markers and normal levels of hemoglobin. However, we knew she may relapse based on an advanced stage, thus, the progression of the disease was reported in the form of hepatic (82%) and splenic (46%) lesions.
Conclusion:
Splenic metastasis is an unusual entity, an incidental finding of radiological examination, requiring further investigation to confirm the malignant character. The standard method in therapeutic strategies for splenic metastasis has not been constituted. Known treatment options include splenectomy, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy.
Mechanisms of Atractylodes macrocephala Koidz. on therapy to diarrheal disease: A systematical review and meta-analysis of preclinical evidence
Authors: Ran Pancen , Jiang Fengxian , Lai Jingjiang , Shu Yang , Zhao Jing , Zhang Zhizhao , Hu Fangyan , Wang Juqiong , Wei Jian , Fu Guobin
Published: January 2024

Background
Atractylodes macrocephala Koidz. (AMK) is a traditional Chinese medicine used for the treatment of various diseases. Atractylenolide and polysaccharide from Atractylodes macrocephala Koidz. (PAMK) are the representative bioactive components in AMK. There have been many in vivo studies on AMK for the treatment of diarrhea, the most common gastrointestinal disorder worldwide and the high mortality rate. The aim of this study is to assess the effectiveness of AMK in treating diarrhea using preclinical evidence and meta-analysis. Additionally, the primary mechanisms by which AMK acts against diarrhea are summarized.
Methods
We systematically searched PubMed, WOS, Embase, Cochrane Library, WanFang, CNKI, Cqvip and CBM databases and other databases from January 1, 2000, to March 10, 2023, to evaluate the animal experiments of AMK for the treatment of diarrhea. Finally, 23 animal experiments were included. Thirteen outcome measures, including overall condition(body weight, diarrhea score, disease activity index), immune-related indicators (colon length, spleen index, histopathological score, SIgA), pro-inflammatory factors(IL-1β, IL-6, IL-17,TNF-α), anti-inflammatory factors(IL-10) and MPO were obtained by using Review Manager 5.4 software for meta-analysis.
Results
Except for the indicator of spleen index, which was not significant difference, it was significantly decreased in the indicator of diarrhea score, disease activity index, histopathological score and significantly elevated in the indicator of body weight, colon length. It showed that AMK could improve immune function in diarrhea. Meanwhile AMK significantly down-regulated pro-inflammatory factors, IL-1β, IL-6, IL-17, TNF-α and MPO, up-regulated anti-inflammatory factors IL-10, indicating that AMK may have anti-inflammation and anti-oxidation effects.
Conclusion
AMK exhibits protective effects against diarrhea through immunoregulation, anti-inflammation, anti-oxidation, and regulation of intestinal flora. These findings provide preclinical evidence supporting the application of AMK in diarrhea treatment.
Bi-Directional Cannulation of the PTA for Lower Extremity Ischemia during pVA-ECMO：A Case Report
Authors: Liu Chuang , Li Xingxing , Fu Guowei , Li Jun , Sun Qianqian , Zhao Junjie
Published: January 2024

Objective:
Currently, there is no effective solution for patients undergoing peripheral veno-arterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation(pVA ECMO) who continue to experience limb ischemia despite the placement of a distal perfusion cannula through the superficial femoral artery.This case study presents the use of bi-directional perfusion of the posterior tibial artery as a remedial measure against limb ischemia following pVA ECMO. The patient was successfully weaned from pVA ECMO after 8 days and transferred to the rehabilitation center 16 days later. In this case, the patient's right foot was saved by bi-directional perfusion of the posterior tibial artery, while the surgical repair during extubation preserved the artery. This approach is unique worldwide.
Prediction of the Soluble Solid Content of Citrus Based on the Fractional-Order Derivative and Optimal Band Combination Algorithm
Authors: Dou Shiqing , Deng Yuanxiang , Zhang Wenjie , Yan Jichi , Mei Zhengmin , Li Minglan
Published: January 2024

The soluble solid content (SSC) is a primary characteristic index for evaluating the internal quality of citrus fruits. The development of rapid and nondestructive SSC detection techniques can help address the current issues of postharvest quality grading in China's citrus industry. In this study, Three varieties of citrus were used as experimental materials. After obtaining the reflection spectra and SSCs,SNV-FOD (Standard Normal Variate - Fractional-Order Derivative) was used to process the spectra, and the optimal band combination algorithm (OBC) was introduced to select SSC-sensitive bands. Then, the obtained optimal dual-band combination was input into eight regression models for comparison, and the best-performing models stacked ensemble models was selected. Finally, the H-ELR (HyperOpt-optimized Ensemble Learning Regression) model, optimized using a Bayesian function, was applied for the effective prediction of citrus SSC. The results shows that (1) The SNV-FOD preprocessing method proposed in this paper improved the correlation coefficient with the SSC by 0.29 compared to that of the original spectrum; (2) The optimal dual-band combination (969 and 1069 nm) constructed by integrating the differential index (DI) and 1.2-order derivative yielded the most accurate results (RPD = 2.13); and (3) The H-ELR model, based on HyperOpt optimization, achieved good predictive performance (RPD = 2.46). This research contributes to the development of practical SSC prediction instruments with excellent universality and ease of application.
Predictors of Extrapyramidal Side Effects among Patients Taking Antipsychotic Medication at Mekelle Psychiatry Units, Northern Ethiopia, 2023: Unmatched Case-Control Study
Authors: Gebru Welu Abadi , Asfaw Gebregziabher Kidanemariam , Berhe Knife Tesfay , Begashaw Tesfaye Derbie , Reta Hiwot Gebrewahid , Gebresilassie Hagos Tsegabrhan
Published: January 2024

Background
Schizophrenia is one of the most disruptive of neuropsychiatric disorders, affecting around 1% of the world's population. Antipsychotic medications have been the backbone of schizophrenia treatment for the past 50 years. Extrapyramidal side effects of antipsychotic medication are a major problem which is associated with various factors. However, there is a dearth of evidence about the predicting factors for extrapyramidal side effects.
Objective
To determine the predictors of extrapyramidal side effects among patients taking antipsychotic medication at Mekelle Psychiatry units, Northern Ethiopia, 2023
Methodology:
A Case-control study design was employed with a total of 201 study subjects (67cases and 134 controls). A systematic random sampling technique was employed to select the required study subjects. Extrapyramidal Side Effects were measured by the Simpson-Angus Scale, Abnormal Involuntary Movement Scale (AIMS), and the Barnes Akathisia Rating Scale (BARS) scale. The data were analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 22. Bivariate and multiple logistic regression analyses were performed to determine between the independent and dependent variables. The significant independent predictor was declared at a 95% confidence interval and P-value of less than 0.05.
Result
Among the study subjects the modifiable factors significantly associated with EPS were; being female(AOR = 0.140, 95% CI: .0.042–0.465, p = 0.001),being single (AOR = 3.084, 95% CI: 0.569–16.727, p = 0.006), perceived stigma (AOR = 0.165, 95% CI: 0.038–0.708, p = 0.015), having mental illness history (AOR = 6.316, 95% CI: 2.026–19.692), p = 0.001), combination first generation antipsychotic drugs(AOR = 0.095 ,95% CI: 0.010–0.877, p = 0.038), Kchat chewing practice/ behavior (AOR = 4.033, 95% CI: 1.120-14.531, p = .033) and history of alcohol use and currently drink alcohol (AOR = 6.213, 95% CI: 1.375–28.079, p = 0.018).
Conclusion and recommendation:
Our study revealed, being female, single, stigma, combination first-generation antipsychotic drug, having mental illness history, Kchat chewing practice/ behavior and Alcohol intake in the last 3 months were significant factors of Extrapyramidal Side Effects. Psychiatric professionals should be assessing the predictors of Extrapyramidal Side Effects especially, combination of first-generation antipsychotic drugs, substance use with antipsychotic drugs and management comorbid diagnosis routinely is strongly recommended.
Outcomes of maze procedure and cardiac surgery in atrial functional mitral regurgitation: a retrospective study
Authors: Song Kyungsub , Jang Woo Sung , Kim Yun Seok , Yoo Jonghoon
Published: January 2024

Background
Atrial functional mitral regurgitation (AFMR) is a newly discovered condition associated with longstanding atrial fibrillation. This retrospective study aimed to analyze the outcomes of the maze procedure and mitral regurgitation (MR) surgery in AFMR and atrial fibrillation in comparison with those in degenerative MR (DMR).
Methods
Patients who underwent mitral valve repair/replacement with a maze procedure at a hospital (July 2012–August 2021) were included. We excluded patients aged below 18 years undergoing concomitant coronary artery bypass grafting or atrial septal defect repair and those with MR etiology other than ARMR or DMR.
Results
We included 35 patients with AFMR and 50 patients with DMR. Patient characteristics and postoperative outcomes were not significantly different between the 2 groups. Long-term outcomes revealed no significant differences in the ratio of cardiac mortality, stroke, or hospital readmission. However, a junctional rhythm state on electrocardiography after the maze procedure (p < 0.001) and permanent pacemaker insertion for sick sinus syndrome (SSS) (p = 0.03) were significantly more common in the AFMR group. On postoperative transthoracic echocardiography (TTE), the pulmonary artery systolic pressure was significantly less decreased in the AFMR group than in the DMR group compared with that on preoperative TTE (p = 0.04), attributed to the AFMR group’s significantly higher tricuspid regurgitation (TR) recurrence after tricuspid annuloplasty (TAP) (p = 0.01).
Conclusions
AFMR showed excellent mitral valve surgery outcomes, similar to DMR, but had a significantly higher risk of pacemaker insertion for SSS and TR recurrence after TAP.
Reflexive symmetric differentials and quotients of bounded symmetric domains
Authors: Patel Aryaman
Published: January 2024

For each classical irreducible bounded symmetric domain $\mathcal{D}$, Klingler has computed the minimum number $m_{\mathcal{D}}$ such that any smooth projective quotient $X=\mathcal{D}/\Gamma$, for $\Gamma\in\textrm{Aut}^0(\mathcal{D})$, satisfies $H^0(X,\mathrm{Sym}^i\Omega^1_X)=0$ for $0
A new blow-up criterion for a $p$-Laplacian type pseudo-parabolic equation with singular potential and logarithmic nonlinearity
Authors: Yang Hui
Published: January 2024

In this paper, a p-Laplacian type pseudo-parabolic equation with singular potential and logarithmic nonlinearity is considered and finite time blow-up of solutions is proved with initial data at arbitrarily high initial energy level. A new criterion for the solutions to blow up in finite time is established by using Gagliardo-Nirenberg's interpolation inequality and inverse Sobolev inequality. It is worthy to point out that the lifespan of the weak solutions is estimated from both above and below. From methods to results, we partially extend some results obtained in recent literatures.
AMS Mathematics Subject Classification 2010: 35K55, 35B44.
High-throughput Light-induced Immunoassay under One-minute Antibody-coating with Energy Saving Nanoparticle-imprinted Substrate
Authors: Iida Takuya , Kanoda Masatoshi , Hayashi Kota , Takagi Yumiko , Tamura Mamoru , Tokonami Shiho
Published: January 2024

The efficient detection of harmful viruses and protein biomarkers is critical for public health. However, the sensitivity of conventional antigen test kits is relatively low for early diagnosis, and laboratory immunoassays require complex pretreatment processes overnight. If target nanomaterials could be remotely guided to the detection site, simpler and faster methods would be developed. Here, we reveal that nanoparticles modified with spike proteins of SARS-CoV-2 can be selectively detected with 1/100 of virus concentration in saliva via a two-step optical condensation using our nanoparticle-imprinted plasmonic substrate (NPI-PS), where anti-spike-protein antibody was coated on NPI-PS over submillimeter area within one minute. NPI-PS exhibits high-performance optical condensation with high photothermal properties even under noninvasive milliwatt-class laser irradiation, enabling quantitative measurements of nanoparticles ranging from 106–1010 particles/mL within a few minutes. These findings support an innovative strategy to mitigate pandemic threats and various diseases through the high-throughput detection of various protein biomarkers.