bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of feralisation on evolutionary trajectories in the genomes of feral cat island populations
Authors: Koch Katrin , Nieto-Blázquez María Esther , Gómez-Suárez Manuela , Pfenninger Markus
Published: October 2023

Background
Feralisation is the process of domesticated animals returning to the wild, and it is considered the counterpart of domestication. Molecular genetic changes are well documented in domesticated organisms but understudied in feral populations. In this study, the genetic differentiation between domestic and feral cats was inferred by analysing whole-genome sequencing data of two geographically distant feral cat island populations (Dirk Hartog Island (Australia) and Kaho’olawe (Hawaii)), as well as domestic cats and European wildcats. The study investigated population structure, genetic differentiation, genetic diversity, highly differentiated genes, and recombination rates.
Results
Genetic structure analyses linked both feral cat populations to North American domestic cat populations. Recombination rates in feral cats were lower than in domestic cats but higher than in wildcats. For Australian and Hawaiian feral cats, 78 and 65 highly differentiated genes compared to domestic cats, respectively, were identified. Annotated genes had similar functions, with almost 50% of the divergent genes related to nervous system development. Only five mutually highly differentiated genes were found in both feral populations. Evolution of highly differentiated genes was likely driven by specific demographic histories, the relaxation of the selective pressures associated with domestication, and adaptation to novel environments to a minor extent. Random drift was the prevailing force driving highly divergent regions, with relaxed selection in feral populations also playing a significant role in differentiation from domestic cats.
Conclusions
The study demonstrates that feralisation in cats is not just the reversal of domestication, but an independent process that brings feral cats on a unique evolutionary trajectory.
Skin incision in total mastectomy and relationship to indocyanine green angiography with assessment of skin flap perfusion
Authors: Yoshino Maho , Nakagawa Tsuyoshi , Uetake Hiroyuki , Oda Goshi , Ogawa Ayumi , Hayashi Kumiko , Mori Hiroki , Fujioka Tomoyuki , Mori Mio
Published: October 2023

Background
This study investigated the cause of skin flap necrosis following total mastectomy to prevent skin flap necrosis.
Methods
For 79 patients who underwent total mastectomy at our institution, the skin incision line was set at operation, and each dissection distance from the skin incision line to the area of mastectomy was measured and photographed. The photographs were analyzed to determine the skin resection area. The approximate area of the total anterior chest on the operative side was also measured by preoperative positron emission tomography-computed tomography (PET-CT) to determine the ratio of the skin resection area to total anterior chest area on the operative side. The results were compared for the necrosis and non-necrosis groups.
Results
The skin resection area and the perimeter of the skin incision line were significantly greater in the necrosis group (p = 0.009, 0.004); the ratio of the skin resection area to total anterior chest area on the operative side was also significantly greater in the necrosis group (p = 0.005). Intraoperative indocyanine green angiography showed significant differences in the skin resection area and the ratio of the skin resection area to anterior chest area (p = 0.006, 0.025) compared between the cases with areas of relative perfusion ≤ 11% and two other groups. The skin resection area affected blood perfusion of the skin flap, causing a partial reduction in blood flow.
Conclusions
In total mastectomy, larger skin resection significantly increases the risk of necrosis due to reduced blood perfusion of the skin flap.
Predictors for Interest to Participate in Digital Mental Health Therapy: A Cross-Sectional Survey of Individuals with Anxiety and Depression
Authors: Gunawardena Tharidu , Bartholmae Marilyn , Karpov Matvey , Dod Rohan , Ahuja Kripa , Rajendran Aishwarya , Kathrotia Mayuri , Dodani Sunita
Published: October 2023

Background:
Due to a multitude of factors, the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic resulted in a significant increase in mental health issues within society, including depression and anxiety. Due to the increased trend of mental health disorders in society, digital mental health therapies are more useful than ever. With the emergence of programs utilizing Internet Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (iCBT), mental health resources are easily accessible and can be widely implemented to those in need.
The aim of this study was to identify predictors for interest to participate in SilverCloud Digital Mental Health Therapy among individuals with mild to severe anxiety and/or depression based on preliminary findings from the COVIDsmart study.
Methods:
COVIDsmart study participants who indicated they would like to participate in future studies derived from COVIDsmart findings and who had moderate to severe anxiety and/or depression, were invited to complete a needs assessment survey to determine eligibility for the SilverCloud study using Research Electronic Data Capture (REDCap). The needs assessment was used to evaluate reasons for high levels of anxiety and/or depression during COVID-19. Additionally, participants were asked to indicate if they would be interested in receiving free digital mental health services. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze the demographics of participants. Furthermore, a logistic regression was used to find predictors for interest in participation in SilverCloud. SAS 9.4 was used and p values <0.05 were considered significant.
Results:
Out of the COVIDsmart participants who took part in the SilverCloud needs assessment, 120 individuals completed it. The largest demographic among these participants were females (70.83%) who identified as White (80.83%). The mean age was 48.74 years (SD = 14.66). Results revealed that having a mental health comorbidity significantly predicted the likelihood of interest in participating in the SilverCloud digital mental health program (p= 0.027).
Conclusions:
Individuals with pre-existing mental health conditions should receive additional screening and treatment to detect the possibility of newly emerging depression and/or anxiety. These results have significant implications for healthcare settings and mental health clinics regarding the utilization of screenings and treatment.
Silver-modified atraumatic restorative treatment in managing early childhood caries. 1-year clinical results of “SMART” technique in primary teeth: A retrospective study
Authors: AKSOY Merve , SARI Makbule Buse DUNDAR , SOZUOZ Melis ARDA , GUNGOR Erva , BAL Cenkhan
Published: October 2023

Objectives: This retrospective study aimed to assess the 12-month clinical success of the silver-modified atraumatic restorative treatment (SMART) technique in primary teeth.
Materials and Methods: The analyses (Modified- United States Public Health Service criteria) were performed on retrospective clinical records (3-6-12 months) of 53 cases (2-6 years, no spontaneous pain-sensitivity to percussion-palpation) treated with the SMART technique during the pandemic. The teeth were divided into groups by location (Mandibular-Maxillary) and cavity preparation (Class-1-2-3). P-value <0.05 was accepted as statistically significant.
Results: The success rate of retention, marginal discoloration, and secondary caries in the mandibula (84.8%), was higher than the values detected in the maxilla (38.5%) and teeth with Class-1 cavity preparation were significantly more successful at 12-month assessments (p=0.038). Mandibular cases and Class-1 cavities revealed better results in marginal adaptation assessments (78.8%, and 88.9%, respectively).
Conclusion: SMART can be a preferable alternative for short-term applications in the management of carious primary teeth of young children with dental anxiety.
Clinical Relevance: This study highlights an alternative treatment approach that focuses on caries arresting in children with dental anxiety at least for a period until the child becomes more mature and able to comply with the advanced treatment procedure.
High sensitivity and specificity in fetal gender identification in the first trimester, using ultrasound and Noninvasive Prenatal Screening (NIPS) in twin pregnancies, a prospective study
Authors: Svirsky Ran , Sharabi-Nov Adi , Sagie Tal , Meiri Hamutal , Adi Orenstein , Kugler Nadav , Maymon Ron
Published: October 2023

Introduction: Determination of the fetal gender in the first trimester is important in twin pregnancy cases of familial X-linked genetic syndromes and helps determine chorionicity. We assessed and compared the accuracy of first-trimester ultrasound scans, and cell-free fetal DNA (CfDNA) in determining fetal gender in the first trimester of twin pregnancies. Methods: Women with twin pregnancies were recruited prospectively during the first trimester. Fetal gender was determined using both ultrasound scans and CfDNA screening. Both results were compared to the newborn gender after delivery. Results: A total of 113 women with twin pregnancies were enrolled. There was 100% sensitivity and specificity in Y chromosome detection using CfDNA. Gender assignment using ultrasound in any first-trimester scans was 79.7%. Accuracy level increased from 54.2% in CRL 45–54 mm to 87.7% in CRL 55–67 mm and 91.5% in CRL 67–87 mm. Male fetuses had significantly higher chances of a gender assignment error compared to female fetuses, odds ratio = 23.574 (CI 7.346–75.656). Conclusions: CfDNA is highly sensitive and specific in determining the presence of the Y chromosome in twin pregnancies in the first trimester. Between CRL 55–87 mm, ultrasound scanning offers a highly accurate determination of fetal gender in twin pregnancies.
Optimal mechanical stretch promotes TSP-1 expression through Akt and GSK-3β/β-catenin signaling pathways in keloid formation.
Authors: Xu Xiangwen , Ou Yanting , Zhang Yihan , Kang Yixing , Wu Mengfan , Feng Jun , Long Yun , Cui Yongyan , Liu Dandan , Luo Lin
Published: October 2023

Background:
The formation of keloids is influenced by various factors, with local mechanical stretch being recognized as a significant contributing component. Thrombospondin-1 (TSP-1) is identified as a tension-sensitive protein. However, the relationship between TSP-1 and keloid formation induced by mechanical stretch remains unknown.
Materials and Methods:
A simple customized mechanical stretch device was used for the application of homogeneous equibiaxial stretch (HES). Using Western blot and RT-PCR, the optimal stretch strength and duration were determined. Regarding the functional changes induced by stretch in keloid fibroblasts (Kfbs), cell function assays were used. The relationship between TSP-1 expression and stretch-induced scar formation in human and animal models was investigated using immunohistochemistry. The knock-down of TSP-1 in fibroblasts served as a reverse test. The potential signaling pathway, namely Akt and GSK-3β/β-catenin, were evaluated using western blot.
Results:
Optimal HES (oHES) could be achieved with four rotations of the screws on our mechanical stretch device, resulting in a significant increase in vimentin, Col I, and fibronectin expression in Kfbs on day 5. Additionally, oHES significantly promoted cell proliferation and migration, but not apoptosis. oHES resulted in the upregulation of TSP-1 expression in both in vitro and in vivo experimental settings. By knocking down TSP-1, the expression of proteins, particularly Col I, and the oHES-induced alterations in the cellular function of Kfbs could be significantly reduced. The inhibition of TSP-1 may attenuate pHES-induced keloid formation through the Akt and GSK-3β/β-catenin signaling pathways.
Conclusions:
The results confirmed that oHES could enhance the proliferative and migratory functions of Kfbs by increasing the expression of Col I, fibronectin, and vimentin. oHES promoted keloid formation by increasing Col I expression through TSP-1-mediated Akt and GSK-3β/β-catenin signaling pathways.
Myoelectric interface for neurorehabilitation conditioning to reduce abnormal leg co-activation after stroke: a pilot study
Authors: Khorasani Abed , Hulsizer Joel , Paul Vivek , Gorski Cynthia , Dhaher Yasin Y. , Slutzky Marc W.
Published: October 2023

Background
The ability to walk is an important factor in quality of life after stroke. Co-activation of hip adductors and knee extensors has been shown to correlate with gait impairment. We have shown previously that training with a myoelectric interface for neurorehabilitation (MINT) can reduce abnormal muscle co-activation in the arms of stroke survivors.
Methods
Here, we extend MINT conditioning to stroke survivors with leg impairment. The aim of this pilot study was to assess the safety and feasibility of using MINT to reduce abnormal co-activation between hip adductors and knee extensors and assess any effects on gait. Nine stroke survivors with moderate to severe gait impairment received six hours of MINT conditioning over six sessions, either in the laboratory or at home.
Results
MINT participants completed a mean of 159 repetitions per session without any adverse events. Further, participants learned to isolate their muscles effectively, resulting in a mean reduction of co-activation of 70% compared to baseline. Moreover, gait speed increased by a mean of 0.15 m/s, more than the minimum clinically important difference. Knee flexion angle increased substantially, and hip circumduction decreased.
Conclusion
MINT conditioning is safe, feasible at home, and enables reduction of co-activation in the leg. Further investigation of MINT’s potential to improve leg movement and function after stroke is warranted. Abnormal co-activation of hip adductors and knee extensors may contribute to impaired gait after stroke.
Trial registration
This study was registered at ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT03401762, Registered 15 January 2018, https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT03401762?tab=history&a=4)
Shear bond strength over zirconia and titanium alloy and degree of conversion of extraoral compared to intraoral self-adhesive resin cements
Authors: Fouquet Vincent , Dantagnan Claire-Adeline , Abdel-Gawad Sarah , Dursun Elisabeth , Attal Jean-Pierre , François Philippe
Published: October 2023

Objective:Evaluation of the Shear bond strength over zirconia and titanium alloy and degree of conversion of extraoral compared to intraoral self-adhesive resin cements.
Materials and methods: Nine bonding protocols were carried out on zirconia 4Y-TZP and titanium alloy grade V. Seven resin cement were tested in the shear bond strength test and the degree of conversion measurements. One extraoral (Multilink hybrid abutment) and six intraoral (G-cem One, SpeedCem Plus, RelyX Universal, Panavia SA Universal, Nexus Universal, Totalcem).
Results: The significantly highest value was obtained for Monobond Plus + Multilink Hybrid Abutment, the extraoral resin cement for both titanium alloy and zirconia. For each resin, significantly higher DC values were obtained for the dual-cure mode compared with the self-cure mode. Regardless of the cure mode, Nexus Universal reached the highest DC.
Discussion/Conclusions: In this study, the extraoral self-curing resin cement showed the best bond strength values on zirconia and titanium alloy when associated with a universal primer. Some intraoral dual-cure resin cements showed closed performances when used with universal primers. There is no direct correlation between the degree of conversion of the resin cement and the shear bond strength obtained on the prosthetic materials tested.
Psychache Status and Associated Contributing Factors among the Hakka Elderly in Fujian, China
Authors: Chen Yating , Cai Longhua , Ruan Wenqian , Zhang Lingling , Liu Xiaojun
Published: October 2023

Background:Chinese elderly are more psychologically fragile and prone to mental illness than young people. This study investigates psychache and associated factors among Hakka elderly in Fujian, China.
Methods: The Chinese version of the Psychache Scale (PAS) was used to assess the frequency and intensity of psychache in Hakka older adults. Multilevel linear regression analysis was conducted to identify the main socio-demographic factors associated with psychache overall and its frequency and intensity.
Results: A total of 1,262 older adults participated, with mean scores of 18.27 ± 6.88 for total PAS, 12.50 ± 4.79 for PAS-Frequency and 5.77 ± 2.34 for PAS-Intensity. On average, females scored higher than males on PAS-Frequency (β = 0.84, 95% CI = 0.34, 1.35) and PAS-Intensity (β = 0.32, 95% CI = 0.07, 0.58). Older adults currently living in towns (β = -2.18, 95% CI = -2.81, -1.54), with their spouse only (β = -3.71, 95% CI = -4.77, -2.65), or with children (β = -3.24, 95% CI = -4.26, -2.22) were more likely to score lower on PAS-Frequency. Conversely, older adults who were regular sleepers (β = -1.19, 95% CI=-1.49, -0.88 ) or lived with their spouse only (β = -1.25, 95% CI = -1.78, -0.72) were more likely to score lower on PAS-Intensity.
Conclusion: Among Hakka elderly, we found a higher frequency and greater intensity of psychache in females, those with poor health status, irregular sleepers, rural residents, solo dwellers, those with below CNY 10,000 in personal savings, and the medically uninsured. The study’s findings indicate that policymakers should give more attention to the susceptible population and implement practical interventions to reduce their psychological burden.
Time-penalized trees (TpT): a new tree-based data mining algorithm for time-varying covariates
Authors: Valla Mathias
Published: October 2023

This article proposes a new decision tree algorithm that accounts for time-varying covari-ates in the decision-making process. Traditional decision tree algorithms assume that the covariates are static and do not change over time, which can lead to inaccurate predictions in dynamic environments. Other existing methods suggest workaround solutions such as the pseudo-subject approach, discussed in the article. The proposed algorithm utilizes a different structure and a time-penalized splitting criterion that allow a recursive partitioning of both the covariates space and time. Relevant historical trends are then inherently involved in the construction of a tree, and are visible and interpretable once it is fit. This approach allows for innovative and highly interpretable analysis in settings where the covariates are subject to change over time. The effectiveness of the algorithm is demonstrated through real-world data analysis, highlighting its potential applications in various fields, including healthcare, finance, insurance, environmental monitoring, and data mining in general.
Mesenchymal stem cells-derived extracellular vesicles protect against oxidative stress- induced xenogeneic biological root injury via adaptive regulation of the PI3K/Akt/NRF2 pathway
Authors: Fu Haojie , Sen Lin , Zhang Fangqi , Liu Sirui , Mi Hongyan , Wang Meiyue , Li Bingyan , Peng Shumin , Hu Zelong , Sun Jingjing , Li Rui
Published: October 2023

Xenogeneic extracellular matrices (xECM) for cell support have emerged as a potential strategy for addressing the scarcity of donor matrices for allotransplantation. However, the poor survival rate or failure of xECM-based organ transplantation is due to the negative impacts of high-level oxidative stress and inflammation on seed cell viability and stemness. Herein, we constructed xenogeneic bioengineered tooth roots (bio-roots) and used extracellular vesicles from human adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells (hASC-EVs) to shield bio-roots from oxidative damage. Pretreatment with hASC-EVs reduced cell apoptosis, reactive oxygen species generation, mitochondrial changes, and DNA damage. Furthermore, hASC-EV treatment improved cell proliferation, antioxidant capacity, and odontogenic and osteogenic differentiation, while significantly suppressing oxidative damage by activating the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)/Akt pathway and nuclear factor erythroid 2 (NFE2)-related factor 2 (NRF2) nuclear translocation via p62-associated Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 (KEAP1) degradation. Inhibition of PI3K/Akt and Nrf2 knockdown reduced antioxidant capacity, indicating that the PI3K/Akt/NRF2 pathway partly mediates these effects. In subcutaneous grafting experiments using Sprague–Dawley rats, hASC-EV administration significantly enhanced the antioxidant effect of the bio-root, improved the regeneration efficiency of periodontal ligament-like tissue, and maximized xenograft function. Conclusively, Therefore, hASC-EVs have the potential to be used as an immune modulator and antioxidant for treating oxidative stress-induced bio-root resorption and degradation, which may be utilized for the generation and restoration of other intricate tissues and organs.
Methane-Rich Saline Ameliorates Depressive-Like Behaviors During Chronic Unpredictable Mild Stress (CUMS)
Authors: nasab Mohammad ghaffari , Rezvani Mohammad Ebrahim , Hosseini Mohammad Sadeghe , Mehrjerdi Fatemeh Zare
Published: October 2023

Depression is considered the most prevalent neuropsychiatric disorder, which is also a multifactorial and complex disease. Oxidative stress and inflammation are essential contributors to the occurrence and progression of depression. On the other hand, methane is a new therapeutic gas that has been effective in increasing tissue resistance against ischemic injuries and inflammation, so this study was conducted to investigate the effect of methane-rich saline (MRS) on depression. The chronic unpredictable mild stress (CUMS) model was designed with daily mild stressors for two months. MRS was used to treat depressed rats. Depression-like behaviors were assessed with sucrose preference, open field, and forced swimming tests. Besides, the cognitive performance of the animals was determined by the Morris water maze. Serum corticosterone levels, the activity of antioxidant enzymes, and hippocampal malondialdehyde (MDA) levels were measured, and histological changes in the hippocampus were also investigated. The results indicated that MRS decreased depressive-like behaviors and cognitive impairment in depressed animals by increasing the ratio of sucrose consumption, elevating exploratory behaviors in the open field test, reducing immobility in the forced swimming test, and improving memory and learning in the Morris water maze. Additionally, the administration of MRS regulated the corticosterone level in the serum. The level of hippocampal lipid peroxidation and tissue damage was also reduced in treated animals. The results of the present study show that MRS reduces tissue damage and lipid peroxidation in the hippocampus of CUMS animals, which is followed by a significant improvement in behavioral and cognitive functions. Probably, MRS affects by reducing oxidative stress and improving the hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal axis function.
Cost effectiveness analysis of Uterine botulinum toxin injections versus conventional treatment in severe dysmenorrhoea
Authors: Kouame Jean Martial , Bautrant Éric , Levêque Christine , Guertin Jason Robert , Santos Mélina , Delorme Jessica , Franké Oona , Amiel Christophe , Bensousan Thierry , Thiers-Bautrant Dominique , Siani Carole
Published: October 2023

Objectives:
To evaluate the efficiency of botulinum toxin (BT) for the management of severe dysmenorrhoea, after failure of conventional treatments (CT) (hormonal treatments + analgesics) by an incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER), from the perspective of the French Health Insurance (HI).
Methods:
This was a retrospective study (Before and After comparison) based on the patients' medical records (n=20). Data on health care consumption and quality of life were collected prospectively during the Before phase, which corresponds to the CT period, and the After phase, which corresponds to the period after the addition of BT injection. The data were analysed over a time horizon of one year, according to the perspective of the French HI. In the main analysis, total average costs included direct and indirect costs. Efficiency was assessed using the incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER). The innovative strategy was considered efficient at a threshold of 30,000 € / QALY. A probabilistic sensitivity analysis using the Monte Carlo method was performed to take into account the uncertainty around the ICER related to sampling fluctuations, as well as a deterministic sensitivity analysis to evaluate the sensitivity of the ICER to the model hypotheses.
Results:
The results of the main analysis indicate, from the perspective of the French HI system, that the combination of TB + CT with an ICER: -981.98€ / QALY gained [-2187.48 ; 897.46], was the most efficient strategy at the 30,000€ efficiency threshold (dominant strategy). The combination of BT + CT: 714.82€ +/- 336.43€ was less costly than CT alone: 1104.16€ +/- 227.37€. The main cost item in our study was the cost of daily allowances. In addition, BT was more efficient than CT in terms of QALYs gained. Therefore, the use of BT in addition to CT is an efficient and beneficial strategy that could be considered for the management of dysmenorrheic patients.
Conclusion:
This study showed that, for patients with severe dysmenorrhea who are not adequately managed with CT alone, BT + CT appeared to be clinically effective and cost effective in the perspective of the French HI.
Implementation of a robotic surgical practice in inflammatory bowel disease
Authors: Ferrari Ms Linda , Nikolaou Ms Stella , Adams Ms Katie
Published: October 2023

Background
Robotics adoption has increased in colorectal surgery. While there are well-established advantages and standardised techniques for cancer patients, the use of robotic surgery in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) hasn’t been studied yet.
Objective
To evaluate the feasibility and safety of robotic surgery for IBD patients.
Methods
Prospectively data in IBD patients having robotic resection at Guy’s and St Thomas’ hospital. All resections performed by a single colorectal surgeon specialised in IBD, utilising Da-Vinci platform.
Results
July 2021 to January 2023, 59 robotic IBD cases performed, 14 ulcerative colitis (UC) and 45 Crohn’s disease (CD). Average age; CD patients 35, UC 33 years. Average Body mass index (BMI); 23 for CD and 26.9 for UC patients.
In total, we performed 31 ileo-caecal resections (ICR) with primary anastomosis (18 Kono-S anastomosis, 6 mechanical anastomosis and 7 ileo-colostomy), of those 4 had multivisceral resections (large bowel, bladder, ovary). Furthermore, 14 subtotal colectomy (1 emergency), 8 proctectomy, 3 panproctocolectomy and 3 ileo-anal J pouch. 18 of the 45 patients (45.0%) with crohn’s disease had ongoing fistulating disease to other parts of the GI tract (small or large bowel). ICR were performed using different 3 ports position, depending on the anatomy established prior to surgery with magnetic resonance images (MRI). One patient had conversion to open due to anaesthetic problems and one patient required re-operation to refashion stoma. 98.0% cases completed robotically. Median Length of hospital stay (LOS) was 7 days for CD and 7 for UC cases, including LOS in patients on pre-operative parenteral nutrition.
Conclusions
Robotic colorectal techniques can be safely used for patients with IBD, even with fistulating disease. Future research and collaborations are necessary to standardize technique within institutions.
Shyness and adolescents’ smartphone addiction: Roles of maladaptive cognitive emotion regulation, experiential avoidance, and online social support
Authors: Gao Ling , Kong Fangyuan , Liu Fengfeng , Wang Xingchao
Published: October 2023

Although previous research has demonstrated shyness plays a critical role in the development and maintenance of smartphone addiction, the mediating and moderating mechanisms underlying this relationship remains obscure. The present study aimed to examine the mediating roles of maladaptive cognitive emotion regulation strategies and experiential avoidance and the moderating role of online social support in the relationship between shyness and adolescents’ smartphone addiction. A sample of 513 Chinese adolescents (Mage = 16.16 years, range from 14 to 19) was recruited to complete the questionnaires. After sex and age were controlled, shyness was significantly and positively associated with adolescents’ smartphone addiction and this relationship was partially mediated by both maladaptive cognitive emotion regulation strategies and experiential avoidance. The multiple mediation analysis further indicated that maladaptive cognitive emotion regulation strategies and experiential avoidance exerted a mixed mediation effect on the relationship between shyness and adolescents’ smartphone addiction. Moreover, online social support significantly moderated the relationship between shyness and smartphone addiction and this relationship is much weaker for adolescents with high online social support. These results contribute to design the effective interventions of adolescents’ smartphone addiction.
Histology and morphometry of the skin of purple spaghetti-eel Moringua raitaborua (Anguilliformes, Moringuidae)
Authors: Kim Hyun-Tae
Published: October 2023

The purple spaghetti-eel Moringua raitaborua lives on the sandy or muddy bottoms of estuaries, which are subject to rapid and wide changes in salinity, pH, and osmoregulatory and hypoxic conditions due to the influx of organic materials from sources of freshwater. The species has adapted to hypoxic environments by developing a thicker epidermis with stratified polygonal cells, club cells, two types of mucous cells (goblet and, oval/stratified/cuboidal cells) and dermis with blood capillaries. Among them, histological modification of thinner dorsal, lateral, and ventral body skin to include abundant capillaries and well-developed dermal vascularization may provide cutaneous respiration, permitting survival in brackish waters with low levels of oxygen and variable environmental parameters.
Parental mental health and reporting of their child’s behaviour: measurement invariance of the French version of the parental Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire
Authors: SAPIN Arnaud , VANIER Antoine , DESCARPENTRY Arthur , MAFFRE-MAVIEL Gustave , VUILLERMOZ Cécile , FALISSARD Bruno , GALERA Cédric , WARSZAWSKI Josiane , DAVISSE-PATURET Camille , HAZO Jean-Baptiste , ROUQUETTE Alexandra
Published: October 2023

Symptomatic effects of mental disorders in parents could bias their reporting on their child’s mental health. This study aimed to investigate the measurement invariance of the French version of the parental Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ) across parental mental health in a sample (N=20,765) of parents of children aged 3 to 17 years in France. Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA) and Exploratory Structural Equation Modelling (ESEM) were used to evaluate the fit of three known alternative SDQ factor structures (five, three, or second-order factor structures). Invariance was tested across parental mental health (present anxiety and depressive symptoms, psychiatric history) and across socio-demographic characteristics (child's age, child's gender, parent's gender, parent's educational level). CFA models showed a poor fit, while all ESEM models achieved acceptable or good fit, with the five-factor model presenting the best fit. Invariance was observed for all characteristics tested, indicating that the SDQ can be used to study the links between parental mental health and their child's mental health without bias. However, ESEM showed that the Hyperactivity/Inattention and Conduct Problems dimensions were not well differentiated in the French version of the SDQ.
Peripherally tetra-substituted zinc (II) phthalocyanine sensitized TiO 2 composite: Monitoring with tandem LC/MS and photocatalytic degradation of amoxicillin
Authors: Keşir Melek Koç , Bıyıklıoğlu Zekeriya
Published: October 2023

The presence of pharmaceutically active compounds, including antibiotics, in various waters is of concern worldwide. The global handicap is that antibiotics derivatives, even when present in low concentrations in the environment, can lead to the development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria. The main purpose of this research was to degrade amoxicillin (AMX), which rapidly transforms into various degradation products (DPs) that can prove resistant to removal from water sources. To this end, the use of TiO2 nanocomposites with modified zinc phthalocyanine (ZnPc)/TiO2 was considered to both degrade the AMX compound and remove its possible DPs. The (ZnPc)/TiO2 nanocomposites are firstly synthesized by sol-gel method using titanium isopropoxide and ZnPc as Ti source, and dye pigments, respectively. The (ZnPc)/TiO2 samples were characterized by scanning electron microscopy / energy dispersive X-ray analyzer (SEM/EDX), X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and Ultraviolet–Visible Diffuse Reflectance Spectroscopy (UV-DRS). To estimate the DPs formed during the photocatalytic cleavage of AMX, a triple quadrupole LC/MS/MS (Tandem MS2) was performed. It was proposed possible DPs empirical structures as structural by paying attention to the literature information in identifying possible DPs. Mineralization of AMX was also investigated by total organic carbon (TOC) analysis, suggesting that either amoxicillin itself or its resistant metabolites are still in solution and mineralization did not occur in the an expected manner.
Zero-shot Learning of Drug Response Prediction for Preclinical Drug Screening
Authors: Hu Wenbin , Li Kun , Liu Weiwei , Luo Yong , Cai Xiantao , Du Bo
Published: October 2023

Conventional deep learning methods typically employ supervised learning for drug response prediction (DRP). This entails dependence on labeled response data from drugs for model training. However, practical applications in the preclinical drug screening phase demand that DRP models predict responses for novel compounds, often with unknown drug responses. This presents a challenge, rendering supervised deep learning methods unsuitable for such scenarios. In this paper, we propose a zero-shot learning solution for the DRP task in preclinical drug screening. Specifically, we propose a Multi-branch Multi-Source Domain Adaptation Test Enhancement Plug-in, called MSDA. MSDA can be seamlessly integrated with conventional DRP methods, learning invariant features from the prior response data of similar drugs to enhance real-time predictions of unlabeled compounds. We conducted experiments using the GDSCv2 and CellMiner datasets. The results demonstrate that MSDA efficiently predicts drug responses for novel compounds, leading to a general performance improvement of 5-10\% in the preclinical drug screening phase. The significance of this solution resides in its potential to accelerate the drug discovery process, improve drug candidate assessment, and facilitate the success of drug discovery.
Lung Nodule Malignancy Classification with Associated Pulmonary Fibrosis using 3D Attention-gated Convolutional Network with CT scans
Authors: Liu Yucheng , Hsu Hao-Yun , Lin Tiffany , Peng Boyu , Saqi Anjali , Salvatore Mary M. , Jambawalikar Sachin R.
Published: October 2023

Background Chest Computed tomography (CT) scans detect lung nodules and assess pulmonary fibrosis. While pulmonary fibrosis indicates increased lung cancer risk, current clinical practice characterizes nodule risk of malignancy based on nodule size and smoking history; little consideration is given to the fibrotic microenvironment. Purpose To evaluate the effect of incorporating fibrotic microenvironment into classifying malignancy of lung nodules in chest CT images using deep learning techniques. Materials and Methods We developed a visualizable 3D classification model trained with in-house CT dataset for the nodule malignancy classification task. Three slightly-modified datasets were created: 1) nodule alone (microenvironment removed), 2) nodule with surrounding lung microenvironment, and 3) nodule in microenvironment with semantic fibrosis metadata. For each of the models, 10-fold cross-validation was performed. Results were evaluated using quantitative measures, such as accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, and area-under-curve (AUC), as well as qualitative assessments, such as attention maps and class activation maps (CAM). Results The classification model trained with nodule alone achieved 75.61% accuracy, 50.00% sensitivity, 88.46% specificity, and 0.78 AUC; the model trained with nodule and microenvironment achieved 79.03% accuracy, 65.46% sensitivity, 85.86% specificity, and 0.84 AUC. The model trained with additional semantic fibrosis metadata achieved 80.84% accuracy, 74.67% sensitivity, 84.95% specificity, and 0.89 AUC. Our visual evaluation of attention maps and CAM suggested that both the nodules and the microenvironment contributed to the task. Conclusion The nodule malignancy classification performance was found to be improving with microenvironment data. Further improvement was found when incorporating semantic fibrosis information.
Unsupervised physics-informed neural network in reaction-diffusion biology models (Ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease cases) A preliminary study
Authors: Rebai Ahmed , Boukhris Louay , Toujani Radhi , Gueddiche Ahmed , Banna Fayad Ali , Souissi Fares , Lasram Ahmed , Rayana Elyes Ben , Zaag Hatem
Published: October 2023

We propose to explore the potential of physics-informed neural networks (PINNs) in solving a class of partial differential equations (PDEs) used to model the propagation of chronic inflammatory bowel diseases, such as Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. An unsupervised approach was privileged during the deep neural network training. Given the complexity of the underlying biological system, characterized by intricate feedback loops and limited availability of high-quality data, the aim of this study is to explore the potential of PINNs in solving PDEs. In addition to providing this exploratory assessment, we also aim to emphasize the principles of reproducibility and transparency in our approach, with a specific focus on ensuring the robustness and generalizability through the use of artificial intelligence. We will quantify the relevance of the PINN method with several linear and non-linear PDEs in relation to biology. However, it is important to note that the final solution is dependent on the initial conditions, chosen boundary conditions, and neural network architectures.
Do Genres in Extensive Reading Produce Dissimilar Results? –A Case of Chinese Junior High School Students
Authors: Zeng Ling , Luo Shaoqian
Published: October 2023

Extensive reading has been widely implemented and investigated in the learning of English as a foreign language, but the study of genre effects in extensive reading has been rarely touched. While fiction reading is associated with intrinsic motivation, nonfiction deserves inclusion as it is vital for learners’ success in higher education and career. In the present study, a pre- and post-test research design was exploited in a 16-week reading program with 63 junior high school students in Beijing, who were from two intact homogeneous classes reading informational texts (namely, newspapers & magazines, NM) and fictional graded readers (GR) respectively, and their gains in reading, writing ability, and reading attitude were compared. Results show that both groups had gains in reading, writing ability, and reading attitude from pre- to posttest, and Group NM had more gains in reading and writing ability, but only outperformed Group GR significantly in writing improvement. The results are explained by genre, experiment design, and reading style-related factors. Findings of this research suggest the necessity of including informational texts in an extensive reading program for EFL learners, and provide a deeper understanding of the relationship between different degrees of extensive reading and their effects.
Thermal image processing: A novel approach to predicting honey quality
Authors: Kibar Mustafa
Published: October 2023

This study aimed to estimate the proline and Brix content of honey based on the color properties. In the study, 20 honey samples from Türkiye were used, the proline and Brix content of which were determined using the IHC method and the refractometer. The color properties were determined using a spectrophotometer and the ImageJ program, which processed thermal images of honey. Brix and proline estimations were made using the classification and regression trees (CART) algorithm by taking parent node 6, child node 3 and cross validation 5. In the study, the mean Brix and proline values of honeys were 83.2 ± 0.79% and 678.83 ± 192.16 mg/kg, respectively. Analysis of the T-test revealed that there were statistical differences between high and low Brix honeys in terms of L and b values as measured by the spectrophotometer (p < 0.05). The dark and bluish honeys had a lower Brix value and therefore lower sugar content than light and yellowish honeys. In the CART, sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy were 100.00, 0.9091 and 0.9500 for proline and 100.00, 100.00 and 100.00 for Brix, respectively (p < 0.01). The L and b* values of high-proline honeys were higher and lower than 48.143 and 35.416, respectively. Low-Brix honeys had an L and a* value below 55.860 and 53.660 respectively and freshly harvested. As a result, high-proline honeys are whitish and bluish, and low-Brix honeys are more blackish and greenish. However, in order to determine the quality of honey based on color parameters, more extensive studies on honeys from different origins are required.
Photostability of indium phthalocyanines in organic solvents
Authors: Dyrda Gabriela
Published: October 2023

The effects of the macrocycle structure and the medium nature on photodecomposition under UV irradiation of different Indium phthalocyanines: the diindium tripledecker phthalocyanine, In2Pc3 (1), sandwich indium phthalocyanine, InPc2 (2) and iodoindium phthalocyanine, InPcI (3) in benzene, N,N-dimethylformamide (DMF), dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO), dichloromethane (DCM) and 1-chloronaphtalene has been studied. The rate of decay of absorption is explained by a decomposition reaction which is of first-order kinetics with respect to the phthalocyanines concentration. In general, in the present of ligand I− in phthalocyanine InPcI enhance the rate of decomposition.
The effectiveness of glucocorticoid treatment in post-COVID- 19 pulmonary involvement
Authors: Mizera Jan , Genzor Samuel , Sova Milan , Stanke Ladislav , Burget Radim , Jakubec Petr , Vykopal Martin , Pobeha Pavol , Zapletalová Jana
Published: October 2023

Rationale: Persistent respiratory symptoms following Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) are associated with residual radiological changes in lung parenchyma, with a risk of development into lung fibrosis; and with impaired pulmonary function. Previous studies hinted the possible efficacy of corticosteroids (CS) in facilitating the resolution of post-COVID residual changes in the lungs, but the available data is limited.
Aim: To evaluate the effects of CS treatment in post-COVID respiratory syndrome patients.
Patients and methods: Post-COVID patients were recruited into a prospective single-center observational study and scheduled for an initial (V1) and follow-up visit (V2) at the Department of Respiratory Medicine and Tuberculosis, University Hospital Olomouc, comprising of pulmonary function testing, chest x-ray, and complex clinical examination. The decision to administer CS or maintain watchful waiting (WW) was in line with Czech national guidelines.
Results: The study involved 2729 COVID-19 survivors (45.7% male; mean age: 54.6). From 2090 patients with complete data, the largest proportion of patients with persistent lung abnormalities on imaging studies was seen in moderate (14.5%) and severe (31.4%) COVID-19 groups. The patients selected for CS therapy showed significantly worse radiological and functional impairment at V1. At V2, the rates of subjective and radiological improvement, and dynamic lung volumes, were similar in CS and WW groups. However, static lung volumes and lung diffusion capacity for carbon monoxide (DLCO) improved significantly more in the CS group, with the vital capacity (VC) increasing by a mean of 493.72 ml (13.01 %predicted) and DLCO by a mean of 9.19 %predicted (p <0.0001).
Conclusion: While the rates of subjective and radiological improvement were similar between the study groups, the CS group saw significantly better rates of improvements of static lung volumes and DLCO. Our findings suggest that glucocorticoid therapy could benefit selected patients with persistent dyspnea, significant radiological changes, and decreased DLCO.
Comparing sleep measures in cancer survivors: Self-reported sleep diary versus objective wearable sleep tracker
Authors: Li Xiaotong , Mao Jun J. , Garland Sheila N. , Root James , Li Susan Q. , Ahles Tim , Liou Kevin T.
Published: October 2023

Purpose
Cancer survivors are increasingly using wearable fitness trackers, but it's unclear if they match traditional self-reported sleep diaries. We aimed to compare sleep data from Fitbit and the Consensus Sleep Diary (CSD) in this group.
Methods
We analyzed data from two randomized clinical trials, using both CSD and Fitbit to collect sleep outcomes: total sleep time (TST), wake time after sleep onset (WASO), number of awakenings (NWAK), time in bed (TIB) and sleep efficiency (SE). Insomnia severity was measured by Insomnia Severity Index (ISI). We used the Wilcoxon Singed Ranks Test, Spearman’s rank correlation coefficients, and the Mann-Whitney Test to compare sleep outcomes and assess their ability to distinguish insomnia severity levels between CSD and Fitbit data.
Results
Among 62 participants, compared to CSD, Fitbit recorded longer TST by an average of 14.6 (SD = 84.9) minutes, longer WASO by an average of 28.7 (SD = 40.5) minutes, more NWAK by an average of 16.7 (SD = 6.6) times per night, and higher SE by an average of 7.1% (SD = 14.4); but shorter TIB by an average of 24.4 (SD = 71.5) minutes. All the differences were statistically significant (all p < 0.05), except for TST (p = 0.38). Moderate correlations were found for TST (r = 0.41, p = 0.001) and TIB (r = 0.44, p < 0.001). Compared to no/mild insomnia group, participants with clinical insomnia reported more NWAK (p = 0.009) and lower SE (p = 0.029) as measured by CSD, but Fitbit outcomes didn’t.
Conclusions
TST was the only similar outcome between Fitbit and CSD. Our study highlights the advantages, disadvantages, and clinical utilization of sleep trackers in oncology.