bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analysis of endothelial progenitor cell subtypes as clinical biomarkers for elderly patients with ischaemic stroke
Authors: Kadir Rais Reskiawan A. , Rakkar Kamini , Othman Othman A. , Sprigg Nikola , Bath Philip M. , Bayraktutan Ulvi
Published: December 2023

Endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs), expressing markers for stemness (CD34), immaturity (CD133) and endothelial maturity (KDR), may determine the extent of post-stroke vascular repair. Given the prevalence of stroke in elderly, this study explored whether variations in plasmatic availability of certain EPC subtypes could predict the severity and outcome of disease in older patients. Blood samples were collected from eighty-one consented patients (≥ 65 years) at admission and days 7, 30 and 90 post-stroke. EPCs were counted with flow cytometry. Stroke severity and outcome were assessed using the National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale, Barthel Index and modified Rankin Scale. The levels of key elements known to affect EPC characteristics were measured by ELISA. Diminished total antioxidant capacity and CD34 + KDR + and CD133 + KDR + counts in early phases of stroke were associated with disease severity and worse functional outcome at day 90 post-stroke. Baseline levels of angiogenic agent PDGF-BB, but not VEGF, positively correlated with CD34 + KDR + numbers at day 90. Baseline LDL-cholesterol levels were inversely correlated with CD34 + KDR+, CD133 + KDR + and CD34 + CD133 + KDR + numbers at day 90. Close correlation between baseline CD34 + KDR + and CD133 + KDR + counts and the outcome of stroke proposes these particular EPC subtypes as potential prognostic markers for ischaemic stroke.
Central emotions and hubs in a colexification network
Authors: Fukuya Mitsuki , Matsumoto Tomoko , Shimada Yutaka , Ikeguchi Tohru
Published: December 2023

By focusing on colexification, we detected central emotions sharing semantic commonalities with many other emotions in terms of a semantic relationship of both similarity and associativity. In analysis, we created colexification networks from multiple languages by assigning a concept to a vertex and colexification to an edge. We identify concepts of emotions with a large weight in the colexification network and specify central emotions by finding hub emotions. Our resultant central emotions are four: “GOOD,” “WANT,” “BAD,” and “LOVE.”
Reinforcement learning optimisation for graded metamaterial design using a physical-based constraint on the state representation and action space
Authors: Rosafalco Luca , De Ponti Jacopo Maria , Iorio Luca , Craster Richard V. , Ardito Raffaele , Corigliano Alberto
Published: December 2023

The energy harvesting capability of a graded metamaterial is maximised via reinforcement learning (RL) under realistic excitations at the microscale. The metamaterial consists of a waveguide with a set of beam-like resonators of variable length, with piezoelectric patches, attached to it. The piezo-mechanical system is modelled through equivalent lumped parameters determined via a general impedance analysis. Realistic conditions are mimicked by considering either magnetic loading or random excitations, the latter scenario requiring the enhancement of the harvesting capability for a class of forcing terms with similar but different frequency content. The RL-based optimisation is empowered by using the physical understanding of wave propagation in a such local resonance system to constrain the state representation and the action space. The procedure outcomes are compared against grading rules optimised through genetic algorithms. While genetic algorithms are more effective in the deterministic setting featuring the application of magnetic loading, the proposed RL-based proves superior in the inherently stochastic setting of the random excitation scenario.
Advanced platelet-rich fibrin promotes healing of induced corneal ulcer in donkeys (Equus asinus)
Authors: Hosny Omar H. , Abd-Elkareem Mahmoud , Ali Magda M. , Ahmed Ahmed F.
Published: December 2023

Ulcerative keratitis is a common disease in horses which may cause blindness. To prevent secondary bacterial and fungal infections and promote quick re-growth of the epithelial layer, different treatment approaches have been employed. This study aimed to examine the effects of advanced platelet-rich fibrin (A-PRF) gel on the healing process of experimentally induced corneal ulcers in donkeys. Nine healthy adult donkeys were used for the study. The donkeys were divided into two groups: the control group, where no medication was applied to the corneal ulcer, and the A-PRF gel group, where A-PRF gel was applied once a day on specific days after ulcer induction. The healing process was evaluated through various examinations and analyses. The results demonstrated that the A-PRF gel group showed significant improvement in the corneal ulcer area, with epithelial and stromal regeneration. At day 35, about 60% of the A-PRF group showed negative fluorescein uptake. Additionally, fewer complications were observed during the healing process compared to the control group. In conclusion, A-PRF gel is an important and safe therapeutic option for controlling ocular surface infection and promoting corneal healing. We recommend using A-PRF gel as an alternative approach, avoiding eyelid suturing, and minimizing corneal irritation.
Fully-automated, CT-only GTV contouring for palliative head and neck radiotherapy
Authors: Gay Skylar S. , Cardenas Carlos E. , Nguyen Callistus , Netherton Tucker J. , Yu Cenji , Zhao Yao , Skett Stephen , Patel Tina , Adjogatse Delali , Guerrero Urbano Teresa , Naidoo Komeela , Beadle Beth M. , Yang Jinzhong , Aggarwal Ajay , Court Laurence E.
Published: December 2023

Planning for palliative radiotherapy is performed without the advantage of MR or PET imaging in many clinics. Here, we investigated CT-only GTV delineation for palliative treatment of head and neck cancer. Two multi-institutional datasets of palliative-intent treatment plans were retrospectively acquired: a set of 102 non-contrast-enhanced CTs and a set of 96 contrast-enhanced CTs. The nnU-Net auto-segmentation network was chosen for its strength in medical image segmentation, and five approaches separately trained: (1) heuristic-cropped, non-contrast images with a single GTV channel, (2) cropping around a manually-placed point in the tumor center for non-contrast images with a single GTV channel, (3) contrast-enhanced images with a single GTV channel, (4) contrast-enhanced images with separate primary and nodal GTV channels, and (5) contrast-enhanced images along with synthetic MR images with separate primary and nodal GTV channels. Median Dice similarity coefficient ranged from 0.6 to 0.7, surface Dice from 0.30 to 0.56, and 95th Hausdorff distance from 14.7 to 19.7 mm across the five approaches. Only surface Dice exhibited statistically-significant difference across these five approaches using a two-tailed Wilcoxon Rank-Sum test (p ≤ 0.05). Our CT-only results met or exceeded published values for head and neck GTV autocontouring using multi-modality images. However, significant edits would be necessary before clinical use in palliative radiotherapy.
Estimating chronological age through learning local and global features of panoramic radiographs in the Korean population
Authors: Yeom Han-Gyeol , Lee Byung-Do , Lee Wan , Lee Taehan , Yun Jong Pil
Published: December 2023

This study suggests a hybrid method based on ResNet50 and vision transformer (ViT) in an age estimation model. To this end, panoramic radiographs are used for learning by considering both local features and global information, which is important in estimating age. Transverse and longitudinal panoramic images of 9663 patients were selected (4774 males and 4889 females with a mean age of 39 years and 3 months). To compare ResNet50, ViT, and the hybrid model, the mean absolute error, mean square error, root mean square error, and coefficient of determination (R2) were used as metrics. The results confirmed that the age estimation model designed using the hybrid method performed better than those using only ResNet50 or ViT. The estimation is highly accurate for young people at an age with distinct growth characteristics. When examining the basis for age estimation in the hybrid model through attention rollout, the proposed model used logical and important factors rather than relying on unclear elements as the basis for age estimation.
Metabolomic profile of acute myeloid leukaemia parallels of prognosis and response to therapy
Authors: Bolkun Lukasz , Pienkowski Tomasz , Sieminska Julia , Godzien Joanna , Pietrowska Karolina , Kłoczko Janusz , Wierzbowska Agnieszka , Moniuszko Marcin , Ratajczak Mariusz , Kretowski Adam , Ciborowski Michal
Published: December 2023

The heterogeneity of acute myeloid leukemia (AML), a complex hematological malignancy, is caused by mutations in myeloid cells affecting their differentiation and proliferation. Thus, various cytogenetic alterations in AML cells may be characterized by a unique metabolome and require different treatment approaches. In this study, we performed untargeted metabolomics to assess metabolomics differences between AML patients and healthy controls, AML patients with different treatment outcomes, AML patients in different risk groups based on the 2017 European LeukemiaNet (ELN) recommendations for the diagnosis and management of AML, AML patients with and without FLT3-ITD mutation, and a comparison between patients with FLT3-ITD, CBF-AML (Core binding factor acute myelogenous leukemia), and MLL AML (mixed-lineage leukemia gene) in comparison to control subjects. Analyses were performed in serum samples using liquid chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (LC–MS). The obtained metabolomics profiles exhibited many alterations in glycerophospholipid and sphingolipid metabolism and allowed us to propose biomarkers based on each of the above assessments as an aid for diagnosis and eventual classification, allowing physicians to choose the best-suited treatment approach. These results highlight the application of LC–MS-based metabolomics of serum samples as an aid in diagnostics and a potential minimally invasive prognostic tool for identifying various cytogenetic and treatment outcomes of AML.
General Movements trajectories and outcome at 12 months in very preterm infants: An analysis of tendencies and pathological persistence
Authors: Teschler Uta , Dathe Anne-Kathrin , Heuser-Spura Katharina Maria , Bialas Johanna , Cordier Larissa Jane , Albayrak Bilge , Felderhoff-Mueser Ursula , Huening Britta Maria
Published: December 2023

Very preterm infants (VPI) < 32 weeks are at increased risk of developmental disorders detectable using the Prechtl General Movements Assessment (GMA) and the Bayley Scales of Infant and Toddler Development-Third Edition (BSID-III). The aim of this study was to investigate General Movements (GMs) trajectories from preterm to fidgety age including GMs tendencies and their association with cognitive and motor outcome. Retrospective analysis of VPI with GMA at preterm (35 ± 2 weeks postmenstrual age (PMA), T1) and fidgety age (12 ± 3 weeks corrected age CA), T2), and BSID-III (12 ± 3 months CA, T3) is performed. Data are analysed using Pearson χ2-test, Fisher-Freeman-Halton Exact test, and residual analyses. This study found significant associations between (a) GMs (T1) and (b) persistent pathological GMs (T1 + T2) with cognitive outcomes at 12 months (T3) considering the tendencies of GMs in addition to the global character (p = 0.007, p = 0.022, respectively), representing medium-sized effects. There were no significant associations between GMs or persistence of pathological GMs and gross and fine motor outcomes, regardless of GMs tendencies. Findings indicate that considering tendencies of GMs and the persistence of pathological GMs may be important in identifying children at risk of cognitive impairments early. This additional assessment parameter may have the potential for early identification of infants with milder motor and/or cognitive impairments. However, more research is needed using larger sample cohorts to generalise the results and to be able to recommend sequential GMA for clinical routine.
Proposed physical mechanism that gives rise to cosmic inflation
Authors: Law Bruce M.
Published: December 2023

Early in the Universe a chemical equilibrium exists between photons and electron–positron ($$e^{ - } e^{ + }$$

e
-

e
+

) pairs. In the electron Born self-energy (eBse) model the $$e^{ - } e^{ + }$$

e
-

e
+

plasma falls out of equilibrium above a glass transition temperature $$T_{G} = 1.06 \times 10^{17} K$$

T
G

=
1.06
×

10
17

K

determined by the maximum electron/positron number density of $$1/(2R_{e} )^{3}$$

1
/

(
2

R
e

)

3

where $$R_{e}$$

R
e

is the electron radius. In the glassy phase ($$T > T_{G}$$

T
>

T
G

) the Universe undergoes exponential acceleration, characteristic of cosmic inflation, with a constant potential energy density $$\psi_{G} = 1.9 \times 10^{50} J/m^{3}$$

ψ
G

=
1.9
×

10
50

J
/

m
3

. At lower temperatures $$T < T_{G}$$

T
<

T
G

photon-$$e^{ - } e^{ + }$$

e
-

e
+

chemical equilibrium is restored and the glassy phase gracefully exits to the $$\Lambda CDM$$

Λ
C
D
M

cosmological model when the equation of state $$w = 1/3$$

w
=
1
/
3

, corresponding to a cross-over temperature $$T_{X} = 0.94 \times 10^{17} K$$

T
X

=
0.94
×

10
17

K

. In the eBse model the inflaton scalar field is temperature $$T$$
T
where the potential energy density $$\psi (T)$$

ψ
(
T
)

is a plateau potential, in agreement with Planck collaboration 2013 findings. There are no free parameters that require fine tuning to give cosmic inflation in the eBse model.
Beyond scale-free networks: integrating multilayer social networks with molecular clusters in the local spread of COVID-19
Authors: Fujimoto Kayo , Kuo Jacky , Stott Guppy , Lewis Ryan , Chan Hei Kit , Lyu Leke , Veytsel Gabriella , Carr Michelle , Broussard Tristan , Short Kirstin , Brown Pamela , Sealy Roger , Brown Armand , Bahl Justin
Published: December 2023

This study evaluates the scale-free network assumption commonly used in COVID-19 epidemiology, using empirical social network data from SARS-CoV-2 Delta variant molecular local clusters in Houston, Texas. We constructed genome-informed social networks from contact and co-residence data, tested them for scale-free power-law distributions that imply highly connected hubs, and compared them to alternative models (exponential, log-normal, power-law with exponential cutoff, and Weibull) that suggest more evenly distributed network connections. Although the power-law model failed the goodness of fit test, after incorporating social network ties, the power-law model was at least as good as, if not better than, the alternatives, implying the presence of both hub and non-hub mechanisms in local SARS-CoV-2 transmission. These findings enhance our understanding of the complex social interactions that drive SARS-CoV-2 transmission, thereby informing more effective public health interventions.
Inversion study on elastic–plastic material parameters of red sandstone in uniaxial compression test
Authors: Wu Jianing , Yang Xiaobin , Song Yimin , Liu Shun , Li Shihao , Liu Jiawei
Published: December 2023

In order to obtain the real material parameters of heterogeneous rock, the material parameters of red sandstone specimens under uniaxial compression tests are inverted based on the Digital Image Correlation (DIC) method and the Finite Element Model Updating (FEMU) method. The DIC method is employed to calculate the displacement field of red sandstone specimens during uniaxial compression loading. Concurrently, a uniaxial compression elastic–plastic finite element numerical model with non-uniform material parameters is developed based on the FEMU method. The model adopts the Mohr–Coulomb yield criterion and adjusts the boundary conditions in real-time to maintain consistency with the test. The vertical displacement field of the numerical model is juxtaposed with that of the test to construct the objective function. Optimization is achieved using the Artificial Fish Swarm algorithm, which enables the acquisition of the non-uniform distribution and evolution process of the material parameters of specimens at different loading moments. The results indicate that this method can spatially obtain the non-uniform distribution field of material parameters and temporally track the evolution of material parameters during the loading process. This research lays a solid foundation for enhancing the accuracy of intelligent coal mining and dynamic disaster monitoring and early warning in coal mines.
An analysis of bicycle accidents with respect to spatial heterogeneity
Authors: Chun Uibeom , Lim Joonbeom , Lee Soobeom , Park Shinhyoung
Published: December 2023

Bicycles are an eco-friendly mode of transportation, and in the capital city of South Korea, Seoul, efforts are being made to encourage citizens to use bicycles. However, without appropriate safety measures, these efforts can lead to an increase in bicycle-related traffic accidents. To promote bicycle usage while ensuring safety, this study identified various factors that influence bicycle accidents. Data were utilized that had not been properly considered in previous bicycle accident-related studies, including slope and the level of public transportation services. By considering the factors influencing bicycle traffic accidents, various models were constructed, and through comparisons of statistical indicators, the optimal model was selected geographically weighted negative binomial regression. Ultimately, three significant conclusions to ensure bicycle safety were drawn. First, across all areas of Seoul, an increase in road slope leads to a decrease in bicycle-related accidents. Furthermore, for certain Traffic Analysis Zones (TAZs), as the number of local buses (or neighborhood/community buses) increases, the bicycle traffic volume decreases, resulting in a reduction in bicycle accidents. Lastly, for some TAZs, an increase in bicycle lanes to be installed into the roadway was associated with an increase in bicycle accidents.
Exploration of the role of oxidative stress-related genes in LPS-induced acute lung injury via bioinformatics and experimental studies
Authors: Liu Yuanshui , Li Huamei , Ouyang Yanhong , Zhang Yan , Pan Pinhua
Published: December 2023

During the progression of acute lung injury (ALI), oxidative stress and inflammatory responses always promote each other. The datasets analyzed in this research were acquired from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database. The Weighted Gene Co-expression Network Analysis (WGCNA) and limma package were used to obtain the ALI-related genes (ALIRGs) and differentially expressed genes (DEGs), respectively. In total, two biological markers (Gch1 and Tnfaip3) related to oxidative stress were identified by machine learning algorithms, Receiver Operator Characteristic (ROC), and differential expression analyses. The area under the curve (AUC) value of biological markers was greater than 0.9, indicating an excellent power to distinguish between ALI and control groups. Moreover, 15 differential immune cells were selected between the ALI and control samples, and they were correlated to biological markers. The transcription factor (TF)-microRNA (miRNA)-Target network was constructed to explore the potential regulatory mechanisms. Finally, based on the quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR), the expression of Gch1 and Tnfaip3 was significantly higher in ALI lung tissue than in healthy controls. In conclusion, the differences in expression profiles between ALI and normal controls were found, and two biological markers were identified, providing a research basis for further understanding the pathogenesis of ALI.
Identification and validation of telomerase related lncRNAs signature to predict prognosis and tumor immunotherapy response in bladder cancer
Authors: Chen Xiaoxu , Qin Zheng , Zhu Xiao , Wang Lili , Li Changying , Wang Haitao
Published: December 2023

Telomerase allows eukaryotic cells to proliferate indefinitely, an important characteristic of tumor cells. Telomerase-related long no coding RNAs (TERLs) are involved in prognosis and drug sensitivity prediction; however, their association with bladder cancer (BLCA) is still unreported. The objective of this research is to determine a predictive prognostic TERL signature for OS and to provide an efficient treatment option for BLCA. The RNA sequence, clinical information, and mutational data of BLCA patients were acquired from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database. With the help of the data from least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) regression and Cox regression, a prognostic signature was established including 14 TERLs, which could divide BLCA patients into low-risk (L-R) and high-risk (H-R) cohorts. The time-dependent receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve demonstrated the greater predictive power of the model. By combing the TERLs-based signature and clinical risk factors (age, sex, grade, and stage), a prognostic nomogram was constructed to forecast the survival rates of patients with BLCA at 1-, 3-, and 5-years, which was well matched by calibration plots C-index and Decision curve analysis (DCA). Furthermore, the L-R cohort showed higher tumor mutation burden (TMB) and lower tumor immune dysfunction and exclusion (TIDE) than the H-R cohort, as well as substantial variability in immune cell infiltration and immune function between the two cohorts was elucidated. As for external validation, LINC01711 and RAP2C-AS1 were identified as poor prognostic factors by survival analysis from the Kaplan–Meier Plotter database, which were validated in BLCA cell lines (EJ, 253J, T24, and 5637) and SV-HUC-1 cells as the control group using qRT-PCR. In addition, interference with the expression of RAP2C-AS1 suppresses the proliferation and migration of BLCA cells, and RAP2C-AS1 could affect the expression of CD274 and CTLA4, which could serve as prognostic markers and characterize the tumor microenvironment in BLCA. Overall, the model based on the 14-TERLs signature can efficiently predict the prognosis and drug treatment response in individuals with bladder cancer.
Weather induced post failure kinematics of a highway embankment founded on a marly sandstone slope
Authors: Comegna Luca , Mandolini Alessandro , Manna Denise , Rianna Guido , Reder Alfredo
Published: December 2023

A highway embankment founded on a sloping tectonised marly-sandstone flysch formation located in the Apennines chain (Italy) has been affected for about 30 years by continuous slow movements. Given the strategic importance of the involved infrastructure, different investigation and monitoring campaigns have been carried out to get information about the properties of the involved soils and collect data about the displacements and piezometric regime. Field monitoring, in particular, reveals that the observed displacements result from a failure mechanism involving both the embankment and the foundation soils. However, significant gaps in monitoring jeopardize the possibility to assess the long-term trends in the displacements and piezometric regime and the significance of weather forcing in regulating the phenomena. To address such research questions, a procedure, easily transferable in different contexts, is proposed and applied to the test case: a simple hydrological proxy indeed permits evaluating the rate of movement featured by weatherinduced seasonal variability. Such a mechanical response has been confirmed by the results of a simplified numerical model aimed at finding out the main features of the observed kinematics accounting for a hydrological balance of the involved area.
The antidepressant fluoxetine (Prozac®) modulates serotonin signaling to alter maternal peripartum calcium homeostasis
Authors: Domingues Rafael R. , Teixeira Natalia N. , Frizzarini Waneska S. , Beard Adam D. , Connelly Meghan K. , Vang Alysia , Wiltbank Milo C. , Hernandez Laura L.
Published: December 2023

Antidepressant use is two-fold greater in women compared to men; however, most studies have been performed in male subjects. We aimed to understand the impact of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRI, most used antidepressants) on calcium homeostasis and steroid metabolism during the peripartum period. Pregnant sheep (n = 10/group) were treated with vehicle or fluoxetine (most common SSRI) during the last month of gestation. Fluoxetine treatment decreased circulating calcium prior to parturition (8.7 ± 0.1 mg/dL vs 8.2 ± 0.1 mg/dL; P = 0.07). In the control group, total calcium decreased after parturition corresponding to the onset of lactogenesis followed by increase in calcium by day 2 postpartum. Interestingly, this normal transient decrease in circulating calcium was absent in fluoxetine-treated ewes. The steroids cortisol and progesterone were not altered by fluoxetine treatment whereas estradiol was decreased after the onset of treatment (12.4 ± 1.3 vs 9.1 ± 1.2 pg/mL, P = 0.05) and prior to parturition (38.1 ± 8.1 vs 22.3 ± 4.2 pg/mL, P = 0.03). Our hypothesis was supported that fluoxetine treatment alters circulating concentrations of calcium in the peripartum period; however, we surprisingly observed a decrease in estradiol concentrations contrary to reports in in vitro studies.
Quantifying the effects of neutron dose, dose protraction, age and sex on mouse survival using parametric regression and machine learning on a 21,000-mouse data set
Authors: Wang Eric , Shuryak Igor , Brenner David J.
Published: December 2023

The biological effects of densely-ionizing radiations such as neutrons and heavy ions encountered in space travel, nuclear incidents, and cancer radiotherapy, significantly differ from those of sparsely-ionizing photons and necessitate a comprehensive understanding for improved protection measures. Data on lifespan studies of laboratory rodents exposed to fission neutrons, accumulated in the Janus archive, afford unique insights into the impact of densely ionizing radiation on mortality from cancers and various organ dysfunction. We extracted and analyzed data for 21,308 individual B6CF1 mice to investigate the effects of neutron dose, fractionation, protraction, age, and sex on mortality. As Cox regression encountered limitations owing to assumption violations, we turned to Random Survival Forests (RSF), a machine learning algorithm adept at modeling nonlinear relationships. RSF interpretation using Shapley Additive Explanations revealed a dose response for mortality risk that curved upwards at low doses < 20 cGy, became nearly-linear over 20–150 cGy, and saturated at high doses. The response was enhanced by fractionation/protraction of irradiation (exhibiting an inverse dose rate effect), and diminished by older age at exposure. Somewhat reduced mortality was predicted for males vs females. This research expands our knowledge on the long-term effects of densely ionizing radiations on mammal mortality.
A gene network database for the identification of key genes for diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment in sepsis
Authors: Li Qingsheng , Qu Lili , Miao Yurui , Li Qian , Zhang Jing , Zhao Yongxue , Cheng Rui
Published: December 2023

Sepsis and sepsis-related diseases cause a high rate of mortality worldwide. The molecular and cellular mechanisms of sepsis are still unclear. We aim to identify key genes in sepsis and reveal potential disease mechanisms. Six sepsis-related blood transcriptome datasets were collected and analyzed by weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA). Functional annotation was performed in the gProfiler tool. DSigDB was used for drug signature enrichment analysis. The proportion of immune cells was estimated by the CIBERSORT tool. The relationships between modules, immune cells, and survival were identified by correlation analysis and survival analysis. A total of 37 stable co-expressed gene modules were identified. These modules were associated with the critical biology process in sepsis. Four modules can independently separate patients with long and short survival. Three modules can recurrently separate sepsis and normal patients with high accuracy. Some modules can separate bacterial pneumonia, influenza pneumonia, mixed bacterial and influenza A pneumonia, and non-infective systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS). Drug signature analysis identified drugs associated with sepsis, such as testosterone, phytoestrogens, ibuprofen, urea, dichlorvos, potassium persulfate, and vitamin B12. Finally, a gene co-expression network database was constructed (https://liqs.shinyapps.io/sepsis/). The recurrent modules in sepsis may facilitate disease diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment.
Construction and validation of risk prediction model for gastrointestinal bleeding in patients after coronary artery bypass grafting
Authors: Yang Mei , Zhan Shuyu , Gao Han , Liao Caiyun , Li Shisi
Published: December 2023

This study aimed to develop a risk prediction model for gastrointestinal bleeding in patients after coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) and assessed its accuracy. A retrospective analysis was conducted on 232 patients who underwent CABG under general anesthesia in our hospital between January 2022 and December 2022. The patients were divided into gastrointestinal bleeding (GIB) group (n = 52) and group without gastrointestinal bleeding (non-GIB) (n = 180). The independent risk factors for gastrointestinal bleeding in post-CABG patients were analyzed using χ2 test, t test and logistic multivariate regression analysis. A prediction model was established based on the identified risk factors. To verify the accuracy of the prediction model, a verification group of 161 patients who met the criteria was selected between January to June 2023, and the Bootstrap method was used for internal validation. The discrimination of the prediction model was evaluated using the area under the curve (AUC), where a higher AUC indicates a stronger discrimination effect of the model. The study developed a risk prediction model for gastrointestinal bleeding after CABG surgery. The model identified four independent risk factors: duration of stay in the intensive care unit (ICU) (OR 0.761), cardiopulmonary bypass time (OR 1.019), prolonged aortic occlusion time (OR 0.981) and re-operation for bleeding (OR 0.180). Based on these factors, an individualized risk prediction model was constructed. The C-index values of the modeling group and the verification group were 0.805 [95% CI (0.7303–0.8793)] and 0.785 [95% CI (0.6932–0.8766)], respectively, which indicated a good accuracy and discrimination of this model. The calibration and standard curves showed similar results, which further supported the accuracy of the risk prediction model. In conclusion, ICU time, cardiopulmonary bypass time, aortic occlusion time and re-operation for bleeding are identified as independent risk factors for gastrointestinal bleeding in patients after CABG. The risk prediction model developed in this study demonstrates strong predictive performance and provides valuable insights for clinical medical professionals in evaluating gastrointestinal complications in CABG patients.
Generating high-quality plant and fish reference genomes from field-collected specimens by optimizing preservation
Authors: Minich Jeremiah J. , Moore Malia L. , Allsing Nicholas A. , Aylward Anthony , Murray Emily R. , Tran Loi , Michael Todd P.
Published: December 2023

Sample preservation often impedes efforts to generate high-quality reference genomes or pangenomes for Earth’s more than 2 million plant and animal species due to nucleotide degradation. Here we compare the impacts of storage methods including solution type, temperature, and time on DNA quality and Oxford Nanopore long-read sequencing quality in 9 fish and 4 plant species. We show 95% ethanol largely protects against degradation for fish blood (22 °C, ≤6 weeks) and plant tissue (4 °C, ≤3 weeks). From this furthest storage timepoint, we assemble high-quality reference genomes of 3 fish and 2 plant species with contiguity (contig N50) and completeness (BUSCO) that achieve the Vertebrate Genome Project benchmarking standards. For epigenetic applications, we also report methylation frequency compared to liquid nitrogen control. The results presented here remove the necessity for cryogenic storage in many long read applications and provide a framework for future studies focused on sampling in remote locations, which may represent a large portion of the future sequencing of novel organisms.
Effects of aberrations on 3D optical topologies
Authors: Dehghan Nazanin , D’Errico Alessio , Jaouni Tareq , Karimi Ebrahim
Published: December 2023

Optical knots and links are nontrivial three-dimensional topologies consisting of trajectories of phase or polarisation singularities. They are theoretically predicted and experimentally observed in paraxial and nonparaxial regimes and in random and speckle fields. The topological nature of optical knots suggests that environmental disturbances should not alter their topology, hence becoming a resilient vector of information. However, the robustness of optical knots under typical disturbances encountered in optical experiments has not been investigated. Here, we provide the experimental analysis of the effects of optical phase aberrations on optical knots and links. We demonstrate that Hopf links, trefoil and cinquefoil knots are robust to misalignment and phase aberrations. The observed knots are obliterated for high aberration strengths and defining apertures close to the characteristic optical beam size. Our observations indicate these photonic topological structures as viable alternatives for both classical and quantum information processing noisy channels, where optical modes are not applicable.
Five social science intervention areas for ocean sustainability initiatives
Authors: Partelow Stefan , Schlüter Achim , Ban Natalie C. , Batterbury Simon , Bavinck Maarten , Bennett Nathan J. , Bleischwitz Raimund , Blythe Jessica , Bogusz Tanja , Breckwoldt Annette , Cinner Joshua E. , Glaser Marion , Govan Hugh , Gruby Rebecca , Hatje Vanessa , Hornidge Anna-Katharina , Hovelsrud Grete K. , Kittinger John N. , Kluger Lotta Clara , Kochalski Sophia , Mawyer Alexander , McKinley Emma , Olsen Julia , Pittman Jeremy , Riechers Maraja , Riekhof Marie-Catherine , Manez Kathleen Schwerdtner , Shellock Rebecca J. , Siriwardane-de Zoysa Rapti , Steins Nathalie A. , Van Assche Kristof , Villasante Sebastian
Published: December 2023

Ocean sustainability initiatives – in research, policy, management and development – will be more effective in delivering comprehensive benefits when they proactively engage with, invest in and use social knowledge. We synthesize five intervention areas for social engagement and collaboration with marine social scientists, and in doing so we appeal to all ocean science disciplines and non-academics working in ocean initiatives in industry, government, funding agencies and civil society. The five social intervention areas are: (1) Using ethics to guide decision-making, (2) Improving governance, (3) Aligning human behavior with goals and values, (4) Addressing impacts on people, and (5) Building transdisciplinary partnerships and co-producing sustainability transformation pathways. These focal areas can guide the four phases of most ocean sustainability initiatives (Intention, Design, Implementation, Evaluation) to improve social benefits and avoid harm. Early integration of social knowledge from the five areas during intention setting and design phases offers the deepest potential for delivering benefits. Later stage collaborations can leverage opportunities in existing projects to reflect and learn while improving impact assessments, transparency and reporting for future activities.
An efficient strategy with a synergistic effect of hydrophilic and electrostatic interactions for simultaneous enrichment of N- and O-glycopeptides
Authors: Hu Zhonghan , Gao Wenqing , Liu Rong , Yang Jiaqian , Han Renlu , Li Junhui , Yu Jiancheng , Ma Danhua , Tang Keqi
Published: December 2023

An efficient strategy was firstly proposed and successfully applied to simultaneous enrichment of N- and O-glycopeptides from complex biological samples through the synergistic effect of hydrophilic and electrostatic interactions.
The high-expression programming of SR-B1 mediates adrenal dysfunction in female offspring induced by prenatal caffeine exposure and its cholesterol accumulation mechanism
Authors: Xia Xuan , Chen Yawen , Qu Hui , Cao Jiangang , Wang Hui
Published: December 2023

The high-expression programming of SR-B1 mediates inhibition of adrenal steroidogenic function induced by PCE in female adult offspring.
Ultra-large electromechanical deformation in lead-free piezoceramics at reduced thickness
Authors: He Xiang , Boda Muzaffar Ahmad , Chen Chen , Dun Rongmin , Wang Lu , Bao Yizheng , Pang Dongfang , Guo Lin , Zeng Huarong , Li Yongxiang , Yi Zhiguo
Published: December 2023

An enhanced strain output with a shape retention effect is discovered in thin piezoceramics with highly asymmetric strain curves. This phenomenon results from the bending deformation induced by asymmetric domain switching in both surface layers.
Stretchable and neuromorphic transistors for pain perception and sensitization emulation
Authors: Xu Yutong , Liu Dapeng , Dai Shilei , Zhang Junyao , Guo Ziyi , Liu Xu , Xiong Lize , Huang Jia
Published: December 2023

A fully stretchable artificial pain perception nociceptor is prepared. The device is stretched in various ways with stable synaptic and nociceptor simulation performance. This work contributes to the development of flexible sensor devices.
5-exo-Selective asymmetric bromolactonization of stilbenecarboxylic acids catalyzed by phenol-bearing chiral thiourea
Authors: Sugano Masayuki , Inokuma Tsubasa , Yamaoka Yousuke , Yamada Ken-ichi
Published: December 2023

We developed a novel thiourea Lewis-base catalyst with phenol moieties for the enantioselective 5-exo-bromolactonization of stilbenecarboxylic acids to afford chiral 3-substituted phthalides.
Functionalization of pillar[n]arenes towards optically responsive systems via host–guest interactions
Authors: Wada Keisuke , Ogoshi Tomoki
Published: December 2023

In this review, we discuss progress in the field of pillar[n]arene-based optical response systems, focusing on color, fluorescence, circular dichroism, and circularly polarized luminescence signal changes via host–guest interactions.
Dendrite-free deposition and side-reaction suppression of zinc anodes achieved via constructing synergistic interface buffer layers
Authors: Li Ting , Zhou Bo , Yan Zhongfu , Hu Anjun , Liu Mengjiao , Liu Xinyu , Liu Liang , He Miao , Chen Jiahao , Long Jianping
Published: December 2023

Constructing a bifunctional buffer layer for the zinc anode (δ-MnO2@Zn) effectively adsorbs Zn2+ and reduces the bound water in Zn2+ solvent shell for uniform Zn deposition. The symmetric cell achieving a long cycle life of over 890 h at 1 mA cm−2.
Moisture-triggered proton conductivity switching in metal–organic frameworks: role of coordinating solvents
Authors: Lee Hong Kyu , Oruganti Yasaswini , Lee Jonghyeon , Han Seunghee , Kim Jihan , Moon Dohyun , Kim Min , Lim Dae-Woon , Moon Hoi Ri
Published: December 2023

This study reports moisture-triggered proton-conductivity switching behavior in Zn5FDC MOFs, [Zn5(μ3-OH)2(FDC)4(solvent)2] (FDC = 9H-fluorene-2,7-dicarboxylate), induced by the presence and absence of coordinating solvents.
A generalized finite element θ-scheme for backward stochastic partial differential equations and its error estimates
Authors: Sun Yongwang , Zhao Weidong , Zhao Wenju
Published: December 2023

In this paper, we study numerical methods for solving a class of nonlinear backward stochastic partial differential equations. By utilizing finite element methods in space and θ-scheme in time, the proposed scheme forms a generalized spatio-temporal full discrete scheme, which can be solved in parallel. We rigorously prove the boundedness and error estimates, and obtain the optimal convergence rates in both time (first order/second order) and space (k + 1, k in L2 and H1, respectively). Numerical results are finally provided to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed scheme and validate the theoretical analyses.
Was wissen Sie über … „Gesetzeskunde“?
Authors: Schmid Eva C.
Published: December 2023

Liebe Leser, testen Sie Ihr Wissen und frischen Sie Ihre Kenntnisse auf. Bitte kreuzen Sie jeweils eine Antwort an. Viel Spaß beim Beantworten wünscht Ihnen HP Eva C. Schmid!
Viergliedrigkeit und Dreigliederung
Authors: Löwensprung Stefan von
Published: December 2023

Das anthroposophische Menschenbild beinhaltet die kosmologische Evolution von Mensch, Erde und den Naturreichen und betrachtet den Mikrokosmos Mensch in seinem Verhältnis zum Makrokosmos. Es macht verständlich, warum bestimmte Natursubstanzen eine heilende Wirkung auf bestimmte Organe und Organsysteme haben. Die beiden Grundüberlegungen dabei werden als „Viergliedrigkeit der menschlichen Wesenheit“ und „Dreigliederung des menschlichen Organismus“ bezeichnet und sind miteinander verbunden. Sie beschreiben einerseits die Beziehung des Menschen zur ihn umgebenden Natur, andererseits die Funktionssysteme, die Prozesse im Organismus selbst charakterisieren. In der anthroposophischen Arzneitherapie sind die Auswahl der Substanzen aus den Naturreichen, ihre Darreichungsform und ihre Potenzstufen am Zusammenspiel von Viergliedrigkeit und Dreigliederung orientiert und wirken auf diese Weise differenziert sowohl auf die Wesensglieder des Menschen als auch auf seinen Organismus.
Die Zauberpflanze – leicht verrückt und doch potent
Authors: Baumann Christine
Published: December 2023

Seit dem Altertum finden sich Belege für die medizinische Verwendung der Mistel. Die Idee, die Pflanze gezielt bei Krebserkrankungen einzusetzen, hatte zuerst Rudolf Steiner. Aufgrund seiner Äußerungen wurden Effekte ihrer Inhaltsstoffe auf das menschliche Immunsystem wie auf onkologische Geschehen hin erforscht und konnten sich in der Komplementärmedizin etablieren. Daneben ist die wohl bekannteste Wirkung der Mistel ihr ausgleichender Charakter auf den Blutdruck und die Gesundheit des Herz-Kreislauf-Systems. Außerdem ist die Mistel ein sehr bewährtes Stressadaptogen, das die Patienten in eine innere Zentrierung führt, und ein ausgezeichnetes Mittel gegen Schlaflosigkeit. Die Wirkung der Mistel hat sich darüber hinaus in der Frauennaturheilkunde bewährt. Die beiden Fallbeispiele schildern jeweils den Einsatz der Mistel als Begleitung von Operationsnachsorge: die erfolgreiche Normalisierung von Bluthochdruck nach einer Gallen-OP und ein Konzept, das eine Endometriosepatientin mit Kinderwunsch unterstützt, schwanger zu werden und nach einer komplikationslosen Schwangerschaft ein Kind zur Welt zu bringen.
Anthroposophische Biografiearbeit – Wege zum Ich
Authors: Löwensprung Natalie Rosenhauer-von
Published: December 2023

Als Grundlage für die anthroposophische Biografiearbeit dienen als natürlich angesehene Zeitzyklen wie etwa 7-Jahres-Zyklen (Jahrsiebte). Ergänzt wird die Betrachtung von Zeitzyklen mit psychologisch und spirituell orientierter Astrologie. Mithilfe des Geburtshoroskops lässt sich die Entwicklung von Patienten/Klienten sehr individuell betrachten. Die Erkenntnisse aus der anthroposophischen Biografiearbeit bilden eine salutogenetische Grundlage, indem sie helfen, den Lebensfaden wieder in die eigene Hand zu nehmen.
Ganzheitliche Frauenheilkunde
Authors: Fischer Heide
Published: December 2023

Die ganzheitliche Frauenheilkunde ergänzt die anthroposophische Einteilung des Lebens in Abschnitte von jeweils 7 Jahren mit den 3 wichtigsten weiblichen Lebensphasen: die junge Frau, die Frau in den mittleren Jahren, die älter werdende Frau. Anthroposophische Medizin betrachtet diese Veränderungen mit ihren unterschiedlichen gesundheitlichen Herausforderungen nicht pathologisierend – ihre Heilmittel wirken Beschwerden im Frauenleben begleitend, ausgleichend und harmonisierend entgegen. In der Tradition von Rudolf Steiner und Ita Wegman wurden hierfür Heilmittel erarbeitet, die in der Frauenheilkunde eingesetzt werden können. Daneben können natürlich auch Zubereitungen anderer Hersteller nach anthroposophischem Verständnis verordnet werden. Die Autorin stellt Arzneien vor, mit denen sie in jahrzehntelanger Praxis gute Erfahrungen gemacht hat.
Außen starr, innen vital
Authors: Fischer Falk
Published: December 2023

Disteln zeigen 2 markante Gegensätze – innere Vitalität und äußere Erstarrung beziehungsweise Schutz und Abgrenzung –, die in der anthroposophischen Medizin auf ihre begrenzenden und zugleich belebenden Eigenschaften hinweisen. Die Artischocke als üppigste Distelvertreterin verbindet äußeres Maßhalten mit innerer Opulenz und wirkt anregend auf Fettverdauung und Gallefluss sowie regulierend auf den Appetit. Während die Mariendistel mit einer strengen peripheren Begrenzung bei hoher Wuchsfreude zu den wichtigsten Lebermitteln zählt, hat sich die Eselsdistel als rhythmusbetonte, nach oben strebende Pflanze bei Herzrhythmus- und Kreislaufstörungen, Gefühlsleere und Verhärtung bewährt.
Epidemiologische Untersuchung zu möglichen Auswirkungen
öffentlicher Kommunikation im Rahmen der COVID-19-Pandemie auf
Notfallvorstellungen von Kopfschmerzpatient*innen
Authors: Wittayer Matthias , Sandikci Vesile , Ebert Anne , Koehler Clemens , Szabo Kristina , Hoyer Carolin
Published: December 2023

Kopfschmerzerkrankungen sind häufige Vorstellungsgründe in der
Notaufnahme. Wichtig ist hierbei das Erkennen von potenziell
gefährlichen Grunderkrankungen, die mit Kopfschmerzen einhergehen. Wir
hypothetisierten, dass es zu einer verstärkten Inanspruchnahme der
Notaufnahme aufgrund von Kopfschmerzen kam, nachdem die venöse Thrombose
zerebraler Sinus, die oft starke Kopfschmerzen bedingt, als seltene Nebenwirkung
der Impfung mit Adenovirus-Vektor-basierten Coronavirus-disease 2019
(COVID-19)-Impfstoffen identifiziert und durch das Paul-Ehrlich-Institut
öffentlich kommuniziert worden war. Es erfolgte eine retrospektive
Analyse der Daten von Patient*innen mit der Abschlussdiagnose einer
primären Kopfschmerzerkrankung oder eines nicht näher
spezifizierten Kopfschmerzes der Jahre 2019 und 2021, die sich in der Zentralen
Notaufnahme der Universitätsmedizin Mannheim vorgestellt hatten. Auf
Grundlage der Daten des vom Bundesministerium für Gesundheit
herausgegebenen Impfdashboards wurden die Kalenderwochen 14–30 und
47–48 einerseits sowie 1–13 und 31–46 andererseits in
eine Variable „Impfepoche“ kategorisiert (14–30,
47–48: hohe Impfaktivität bei bundesweit≥3 Mio.
Impfungen/Woche; 1–13, 31–46: niedrige
Impfaktivität bei bundesweit<3 Mio. Impfungen/Woche).
Abhängige Variable waren die Anzahl der Vorstellungen. Mittels
Poisson-Regression wurde geprüft, ob die Häufigkeit der
Ereignisse sich als Funktion des Jahres (2019, 2021), der Impfepoche (niedrig,
hoch) und einer Interaktion von Jahr und Epoche – letzteres den Effekt
der Impfaktivität vor dem Hintergrund der Pandemie reflektierend und als
Inzidenzratenverhältnis angegeben – darstellt. Im Vergleich zu
2019 ergab sich eine über 70%ige Zunahme von Vorstellungen
aufgrund von Kopfschmerzen in Phasen hoher Impfaktivität im Jahr 2021
(p<0.001; 95%-Konfidenzintervall 1.272–2.316),
25% der Vorstellungen im Jahr 2021 erfolgten aufgrund einer
patient*innenseitig vermuteten Assoziation mit stattgehabter Impfung.
Neben anderen Faktoren, welche im Rahmen der Pandemiesituation zu einer
veränderten Vorstellungssituation führen, mögen die
öffentliche Informationsverbreitung und dadurch induzierte Noceboeffekte
Ursachen der in unserer Analyse zutage gekommenen Unterschiede in den
Vorstellungszahlen zwischen den Epochen mit unterschiedlich starker
Impfaktivität sein. Dies illustriert die Auswirkungen der Kommunikation
medizinischer Fakten und Informationen in Krisensituationen auf praktische
Aspekte notfallmedizinischer Versorgung.