bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Observer Effect in Social Media Use
Authors: Saha Koustuv , Gupta Pranshu , Mark Gloria , Kıcıman Emre , De Choudhury Munmun
Published: February 2024

While social media data is a valuable source for inferring human behavior, its in-practice utility hinges on extraneous factors. Notable is the ``observer effect,'' where awareness of being monitored can alter people's social media use. We present a causal-inference study to examine this phenomenon on the longitudinal Facebook use of 300+ participants who voluntarily shared their data spanning an average of 82 months before and 5 months after study enrollment. We measured deviation from participants' expected social media use through time series analyses. Individuals with high cognitive ability and low neuroticism decreased posting immediately after enrollment, and those with high openness increased posting. The sharing of self-focused content decreased, while diverse topics emerged. We situate the findings within theories of self-presentation and self-consciousness. We discuss the implications of correcting observer effect in social media data-driven measurements, and how this phenomenon shines light on the ethics of these measurements.
Designing aptasensing platform based on screen printed carbon electrode for detection of acephate
Authors: Singh Poonam , Kumar Sandeep , Verma Sanjay Kumar
Published: February 2024

In this work, we have devised a biosensor utilizing an aptamer functionalized screen-printed carbon electrode (SPCE), for the quantitative estimation of acephate, using cyclic voltammetry (CV). The amino-modified aptamer, specific for acephate, was covalently attached to the surface of SPCE, using the electrochemical diazonium coupling method, followed by end-group activation. The surface structure and electrochemical characteristics of the aptasensor were specified by the application of SEM, FTIR, and CV. Response of the devised aptasensor was linear with acephate concentration in the range of 10 x 10− 9 g mL− 1 to 160 x 10− 9 g mL− 1 (R² = 0.9332, n = 3), with a limit of detection (LOD) 4.34 x 10− 9 g mL− 1. The efficiency of the aptasensor was validated in spiked water samples, consequently, the recovery percentage, of 98.7–104.66% and RSD of 4.59–5.27% (n = 3), was achieved.
Performance Analysis of Photovoltaic Effect on Tunneling Carbon Nano Tube Field Effect Transistor with Gaussian Doping
Authors: A Arulmary , Rajamani V. , Kavitha T.
Published: February 2024

Technology advancement achieves high efficiency with low power. T-CNTFET with low power dissipation in high-speed applications is a suitable candidate for study. Due to the nanometer dimensions of CNTFETs, challenges such as the inability to achieve, reduced leakage current and sub-threshold swing, and increased transconductance and frequency cut are encountered. In addition, low ON current and ambipolar conduction are other drawbacks of conventional T-CNTFETs. Gaussian doping in the channel region of a newly developed design of tunneling carbon nanotube field effect transistor (T-CNTFET) is being evaluated for its performance. Doping is responsible for the short channel effect, increased ON current, and decreased cut-off frequency. There are three tiers of doping in effect. Doping is most concentrated at the drain and source ends of the channel and least concentrated in the central portion of the channel. Two-dimensional self-consistent Poisson and Schrodinger equations are used to model the apparatus. The differential method and the Green's function are used to resolve these equations. The simulation displays performance improvement in terms of transconductance, cutoff frequency, and sub-threshold swing when compared between existing and newly designed doped T-CNTFETs. Photo detectors are extensively used in many applications of communication systems.
Modeling Learning Behavior of Students of Mathematics
Authors: Zaman Budee U
Published: February 2024

This paper introduces an innovative approach to comprehending and modeling the collective behaviors of students within the context of mathematics education. The core objective is to present a comprehensive mathematical framework capable of addressing the entire spectrum of behaviors exhibited in mathematics classrooms. We introduce a novel SIR-based model, tailored to capture behaviors under the influence of individual students. Additionally, we propose that interactions among students across different classrooms can serve as a regulatory mechanism for these behaviors. To validate our approach, we conduct a series of simulations that demonstrate the practicality and significance of our model. This paper significantly contributes to the advancement of our understanding of student behaviors in the realm of mathematics education and their mathematical representation. By bridging the gap between mathematical modeling and the intricate dynamics of student conduct, this work provides valuable insights into the behaviors displayed in math classrooms.
Effect of bottled fluoridated water to prevent dental caries in primary teeth: study protocol for a phase 2 parallel group 3.5-year randomized controlled clinical trial (waterBEST)
Authors: Sanders Anne E. , Godebo Tewodros R. , Divaris Kimon , Slade Gary D.
Published: February 2024

Background: Fluoridation of public water systems is known as a safe and effective strategy for preventing dental caries based on evidence from non-randomized studies. Yet 110 million Americans do not have access to a fluoridated public water system and many others do not drink tap water. This article describes the study protocol for the first randomized controlled trial (RCT) of fluoridated water that assesses its potential dental caries preventive efficacy when delivered in bottles.
Methods: waterBEST is a phase 2b proof-of-concept, randomized, quadruple-masked, placebo controlled, parallel group, trial designed to estimate the potential efficacy of fluoridated versus non-fluoridated bottled water to prevent dental caries incidence in the first four years of life. Two hundred children living in eastern North Carolina, USA, and aged 2-6 months at screening are being allocated at random in a 1:1 ratio to receive fluoridated (0.7 mg/L F) or non-fluoridated bottled water sourced from two local public water systems. Throughout the 3.5-year intervention, study water is delivered monthly in 5-gallon bottles to each child’s home with instructions to use it whenever the child consumes water as a beverage or in food preparation. Parents are interviewed quarterly to monitor children's water consumption and health. At annual visits, the presence of dental caries is evaluated with a dental screening examination. Clippings from fingernails and toenails are collected to quantify fluoride content as a biomarker of total fluoride intake. The primary endpoint is the number of primary tooth surfaces decayed, missing, or filled due to dental caries measured by the study dentist near the time of the child’s fourth birthday. Tooth decay is assessed at the threshold of macroscopic enamel loss. For the primary aim, a least-squares, generalized linear model will estimate efficacy and its one-tailed, upper 80% confidence limit.
Discussion: waterBEST is the first evaluation of a randomized intervention of fluoridated drinking water in bottles to prevent dental caries in the primary dentition. This innovative method of delivering fluoridated water has potential to prevent early childhood caries in a large segment of the U.S. population that currently does not benefit from fluoridated public water.
Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT04893681). Registered March 2022. Last update posted 2023-10-10. https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT04893681?cond=Dental%20Caries%20in%20Children&term=fluoride&locStr=North%20Carolina,%20USA&country=United%20 States&state=North%20Carolina&distance=50&rank=1
Identification of surface water quality pollution areas and pollution sources based on spatial clustering and random forest in Henan, China
Authors: Wei Huaibin , Qiu Haojie , Liu Jing , Li Wen , Zhao Chenchen
Published: February 2024

Maintaining good surface water quality is essential to protecting ecosystems and human health, and different targeted measures for different polluted areas are an effective way to maintain good water quality. This paper takes Henan as an example to study the spatial dependence of surface water quality and explore its spatial clustering pattern, and find out the main driving factors affecting the water quality and analyze the sources of heavily polluted areas by random forest. The results indicate that the spatial pollution pattern of surface water quality in Henan Province can be roughly categorized as insignificant pollution in the northern part, heavy pollution in the central part, and light pollution in the southern part. The heavily polluted areas are mainly located in Zhengzhou, Luoyang and Kaifeng cities. The main indicators affecting water quality in heavily polluted areas are NH3-N, CODMn and TP. The main causes of the deterioration in the region are urban sewage and industrial wastewater discharges. The results not only provide a scientific basis for the systematic management of surface water quality pollution in Henan Province, but also provide a new method for regional water pollution management.
Multi-level Prompt as Extra-Embedding for Incremental Learning
Authors: chaoyang Yan , zhouyang Xu , Cheng Dansong , Ye Jin , Feng Tian
Published: February 2024

Incremental learning has placed an emphasis on solving the issue of catastrophic forgetting. However, the intertask confusion is gradually becoming a non-negligible factor affecting incremental learning. It is observed that a model's learning performance deteriorates significantly when the task identity is unavailable. The primary reason for this is that the model’s features are not closely related to the task, and the ratios of classifier outputs for different tasks become erratic. In this paper, we propose a novel approach, Multi-level Prompt as Extra-Embedding(MPaEE) address the issue of inter-task confusion. MPaEE incorporates several task-independent prompt pools as additional embeddings for image features, enabling classifiers to distinguish inputs for various tasks. Exploiting the fact that the features of the pre-trained model are highly aggregated at the class-level, we assign these prompts to different categories. This approach alleviates the difficulty of selecting prompts for a particular task, as observed in previous work. Our experiments on four benchmark datasets have demonstrated the significant advantages of MPaEE and its effectiveness over the state-of-arts. The implementation of MPaEE can be found in Github: https://github.com/yanaCode0/MPaEE
Geochemical Characterization and Water Quality Index Based Assessment of Groundwater Quality Using GIS In Tropical River Basin.
Authors: Dissanayake Orukanda Dewalage Indunil Pradeep , Perera Thanippuli Arachchige Nilusha Tharangani , Jayasinghe Guttila Yugantha
Published: February 2024

In the Kirama-ara River basin, Matara, southern region of Sri Lanka, a variety of agricultural inputs are utilized, and flooding is a common hazard. Therefore, the groundwater in this area is under serious threat. But the complete physicochemical profile of the groundwater in the Kirama-ara river basin is yet undiscovered. Therefore, the goals of this study were to (a) identify the geochemical characteristics and changes in water quality, (b) evaluate non-carcinogenic health risk and develop a Groundwater quality index (GWQI), and (c) generate a spatial distribution map for groundwater physicochemical characters in the Kirama-ara river basin in Matara, Sri Lanka. The physiochemical characteristics of 16 (G1 to G16) groundwater samples, including pH, total dissolved solids (TDS), electrical conductivity (EC), Ca2+, Mg2+, Na+, K+, Cl-, NO3-, PO43-, and SO42-, were examined for spatial and chronological variations. The pH, NO3-, and PO43- values of 50% (G1, G4, G7, G12, G13, G14, G15, G16), 6.25% (G16), and 6.25% (G16) of the samples, respectively, were determined to be exceeded the allowable limit by WHO standards. The physicochemical investigation demonstrated that while 87.5% of the locations were acceptable for drinking and12.5% of samples were not acceptable. The most common hydro-chemical facies were Ca2+-Mg2+-HCO3-, mixed Ca2+-Mg2+-Cl- face, and Ca2+-Cl-. Rock weathering has a weighty effect on the ionic composition and chemistry of groundwater in the study area. Additionally, health risk assessment revealed that children face greater health risks than adults. Further investigations should be conducted to build reasonable management plans for long-term groundwater quality conservation and public health.
A new cotylean polyclad flatworm species from Ghar El Melh lagoon (Northern Tunisia)
Authors: Gammoudi Mehrez , Dittmann Isabel , Girstmair Johannes , Tomancak Pavel , Egger Bernhard , Bulnes Verónica N.
Published: February 2024

We describe Phrikoceros jannetae sp. nov., a new cotylean polyclad species from Ghar El Melh lagoon, a natural seawater lagoon situated in the north of Tunisia. The new species is characterized by black spots on the dorsal surface in contrast to the white spotted dorsal colour pattern of its congeners. We provide some insights into the biology of this species including the plastic tentacle configuration and the variability of body form and outline within the same specimen. Phrikoceros jannetae sp. nov. was found among tunicates of the species Ciona intestinalis.
Application of Geospatial and Machine Learning Algorithms for Groundwater Quality Prediction Used for Irrigation Purposes
Authors: Raheja Hemant , Goel Arun , Pal Mahesh
Published: February 2024

The main objective of the present study is to evaluate the groundwater quality for irrigation purposes in the central-western part of Haryana state (India). For this, 272 groundwater samples were collected during the Pre- and Post-monsoon periods in 2022. Several indices, including Sodium Absorption Ratio (SAR), Permeability Index (PI), Sodium Percentage (Na %), Kelly Ratio (KR), Magnesium Adsorption Ratio (MAR), and Irrigating water quality index (IWQI) were derived. The results in terms of SAR, Na%, and KR values indicate that the groundwater is generally suitable for irrigation. On the other hand, PI and MAR exceeded the established limits, primarily showing issues related to salinity and magnesium content in the groundwater. Furthermore, according to the groundwater quality assessment based on the IWQI classification, 47.06% and 25% of the total collected samples fell under the "Severe Restriction for irrigation" category during the Pre-monsoon and Post-monsoon periods, respectively. Spatial variation maps indicate that water quality in the western portion of the study area is unsuitable for irrigation during both periods. Three Machine learning (ML) algorithms, namely Random forest (RF), Support vector machine (SVM), and Extreme Gradient Boosting (XGBoost) were integrated and validated to predict the IWQI. The results revealed that the XGBoost with Random searchachieves the best prediction performances. The approaches established in this study have been confirmed to be cost-effective and feasible for groundwater quality, using hydrochemical parameters as input variables, and highly beneficial for water resource planning and management.
A long-lasting low oxygen saturation hiding Titusville Hemoglobin diagnosis in a premature 14-month-old child – Case Report
Authors: Patria Maria Francesca , Piotto Marta , Curcio Cristina , Gangi Silvana , Belhaj Youssra , Lelii Mara , Madini Barbara , Rocchi Alessia
Published: February 2024

Background:
There are some clinical conditions that can impact the accuracy of spO2 measurements, leading to an incorrect diagnosis of hypoxemia. Low oxygen affinity hemoglobinopathy can present with low spO2 and discordance with PaO2 and and general clinical conditions
Case Presentation:
We report the case of a 14-month-old male, born extremely premature, suffering from severe BPD requiring continuous high-flow nasal cannula (HFNC) oxygen therapy, who was hospitalized due to a viral respiratory infection with dyspnea and desaturation. When the child clinically recovered, all attemps of weaning off oxygen led to rapid drops in spO2, despite the lack of increased work of breathing or cyanosis and normal PaO2.
Conclusions:
Severe BPD and recurrent respiratory issues could have per se justified the persistently low spO2. Incongruence between low spO2 values, normal PaO2 levels and good clinical condition, once the child was recovered, raised suspicion of low oxygen affinity hemoglobin (Hb) variants. Abnormal Hb peak detected through high-performance liquid chromatography allowed rare diagnosis of Hb Titusville, confirmed by molecular analysis. In conclusion, the case matched a rare low oxygen affinity hemoglobinopathy (Hb Titusville), highlighting its relevance in unexplained hypoxemia. Diagnosis challenges necessitate a systematic approach to prevent misinterpretations.
Contrast-Enhanced CT Imaging Features Combined with Blood Inflammatory Factors to Predict the Efficacy and Prognosis for Immunotherapy of NSCLC
Authors: Chen Yirong , Yan Haowen , Han Qijia , Yang Zhihe , Ai Zhu , Xiang Zhi-ming
Published: February 2024

Background
Immunotherapy has shown significant clinical efficacy in patients with non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and has been utilized in various therapeutic regimens. However, it is still difficult to identify patients who might benefit from the treatment, which would limit the use of immunotherapy. Therefore, it is extremely important to find predictors for immunotherapy.
Purpose
This study aimed to develop clinical benefit prediction models for NSCLC patients undergoing immunotherapy via the most routine and affordable medical tests and diagnostic procedures.
Methods
A total of 112 patients with advanced NSCLC receiving immunotherapy were retrospectively included. Prior to immunotherapy, the lesion’s CT radiomics features were extracted. A radiomics signature for short-term effectiveness or overall survival (OS) prediction was developed using the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) method. Additionally, the prognostic performance of the clinical factors was evaluated. Finally, a nomogram for short-term effectiveness prediction was established using multivariate logistic regression, and a nomogram for OS prediction was built using multivariate Cox regression.
Results
For short-term effectiveness prediction, the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve values (AUCs) for the radiomics signature in the training and validation cohorts were 0.740 and 0.708, respectively. While that for the nomogram model were 0.793 and 0.740, respectively. As for OS prediction, the Harrell’s concordance indexes (C-index) of the radiomics signature in the training and validation cohorts were 0.750 and 0.831, respectively. While that of the nomogram model were 0.789 and 0.862, respectively.
Conclusions
CT radiomics signature integrated with clinical factors, could be used in the identification of patients likely to benefit from immunotherapy. Models developed in this study might be promising in facilitating more precise medicine and tailored treatment for advanced NSCLC patients.
Method for Lysis and Paper-based Elution-free DNA Extraction with Colorimetric Isothermal Amplification
Authors: Lee Soo Min , Doeven Egan H. , Yuan Dan , Guijt Rosanne M.
Published: February 2024

Nucleic acid amplification testing has great potential for point-of-need diagnostic testing with high detection sensitivity and specificity. Current sample preparation is limited by a tedious workflow requiring multiple steps, reagents and instrumentation, hampering nucleic acid testing at point of need. In this study, we present then use of mixed cellulose ester (MCE) paper for DNA binding by ionic interaction and fluid transport by wicking. The poly(ethylene) glycol-based (PEG) reagent simultaneously provides the alkalinity effect for alkaline lysis and crowding effects for ionic DNA binding of the DNA under high salt conditions. Using a narrow strip of paper, the freed DNA concentrates at the paper tip, while the wicking removes the sample matrix when briefly washing using 40% isopropanol, a 15 in process that is followed by on-paper amplification after a drying step. Colourimetric loop-mediated isothermal amplification enabled the detection of 102 CFU/mL of Escherichia coli (E. coli) from culture media and the detection of E. coli in milk < 103 CFU/mL (10 CFU) after incubation at 68°C for 60 min, demonstrating applicability of the method to complex biological samples.
Exercise affects dust mite-induced asthma by modulating interleukin-17 (IL-17) and indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase (IDO) levels
Authors: Kusuma Ikhwan Yuda , Handayani Rahmaya Nova , Yunus Faisal , Omer Ahmed A A , Doró Péter , Pratiwi Hening
Published: February 2024

Background: Asthma is a chronic inflammatory disease of the respiratory tract that significantly impacts daily activities and quality of life. Asthma exercise is a nonpharmacological approach to asthma management. The effects of asthma exercise on interleukin-17 (IL-17) and indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase (IDO) levels remains understudied. The effects of asthma exercise on IL-17 and IDO levels were investigated.
Methods: This study included 39 participants with mild-to-moderate persistent asthma. Participants engaged in 60 minute of asthma exercise four times a week for 2 months. IL-17 and IDO levels were measured in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) stimulated with the house dust mite allergen Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus using ELISAs. Skin prick tests were conducted using Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus, Dermatophagoides farinae, and Blomia tropicalis.
Results: IDO levels (p-value= 0.03) increased significantly and IL-17 levels decreased significantly (p-value= 0.004) after asthma exercise. However, no significant correlation was found between the decrease in IL-17 and the increase in IDO (p-value = 0.09).
Conclusion: Exercise suppresses immune responses in atopic asthma induced by house dust mite allergens. Thus, exercise is a promising therapeutic approach for atopic asthma. The effects of exercise on IDO and IL-17 levels highlight the potential of exercise to alleviate asthma-related inflammation and airway hypersensitivity.Further research is needed to understand the underlying mechanisms and optimize asthma management strategies.
Influence of Physico-Chemical Properties of Two Lipoxin Emulsion-Loaded Hydrogels on Pre-Polarized Macrophages: A Comparative Analysis
Authors: Guyon Lena , Tessier Solene , Croyal Mickael , Gourdel Mathilde , Lafont Marianne , Segeron Florian , Chabaud Lionel , Gauthier Helene , Weiss Pierre , Gaudin Alexis
Published: February 2024

Inflammation, a crucial defense mechanism, must be rigorously regulated to prevent the onset of chronic inflammation and subsequent tissue damage. Specialized pro resolving mediators (SPMs) such as lipoxin A4 (LXA4) have demonstrated their ability to facilitate the resolution of inflammation by orchestrating a transition of M1 pro-inflammatory macrophages towards an anti-inflammatory M2 phenotype. However, the hydrophobic and chemically labile nature of LXA4 necessitates the development of a delivery system capable of preserving its integrity for clinical applications. In this study, two types of emulsion were formulated using different homogenization processes (mechanical overhead stirrer (ME) or Luer-lock syringes (SE)). Following characterization, including size and droplet morphology assessment by microscopy, the encapsulation efficiency (EE) was determined using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). To exert control over LXA4 release, these emulsions were embedded within silanized hyaluronic acid hydrogels. A comprehensive evaluation, encompassing gel time, swelling, and degradation profiles under acidic, basic, and neutral conditions, preceded the assessment of LXA4 cumulative release using LC-MS/MS. Physicochemical results indicate that H-ME exhibits superior efficiency over H-SE. While both formulations stimulated pro-inflammatory cytokine secretion and promoted a pro-inflammatory macrophage phenotype, LXA4 emulsion-loaded hydrogels displayed a diminished pro-inflammatory activity compared to blank emulsion-loaded hydrogels. These findings highlight the biological efficacy of LXA4 within both systems, with H-SE outperforming H-ME in terms of efficiency. These versatile H-ME and H-SE formulations can be customized to enhance their biological activity making them promising tools to promote the resolution of inflammation in diverse clinical applications.
Exploration of Key Regulatory Factors for Continuous Regulation of Osteogenic Differentiation in Mesenchymal Stem Cells Based on Transcriptomic Sequencing
Authors: Liu Tao , Pan Yu , Li Linfeng , He Liang , Pan Shu , Liu Yuwei
Published: February 2024

In this study, we conducted an integrated analysis of high-throughput transcriptomic sequencing data to identify and validate the biological molecules that dynamically regulate the osteogenic differentiation of Mesenchymal Stem Cells (MSCs). Through transcriptomic sequencing analysis, taking into account the expression levels of genes in human tissues and experimental validation, we identified PTBP1, H2AFZ, and TTPAL (C20ORF121) as pivotal regulators that govern the fate of MSC osteogenic differentiation. This article represents the first utilization of high-throughput transcriptomics for identifying regulatory factors involved in MSC osteogenesis. This study holds significant importance in investigating crucial factors that determine the fate of MSC differentiation, with notable clinical implications. This approach will lead to a better understanding of the complex biological processes and molecular mechanisms underlying diseases.
Essential oil of Piper marginatum (Piperaceae) against monogeneans, and its hematological and histopathological effects on Colossoma macropomum
Authors: Alves Carliane Maria Guimarães , Baia Raimundo Rosemiro Jesus , Pacheco Amanda Mendes , Carvalho Abthyllane Amaral , Faria Vitor Araujo , Videira Marcela Nunes , Chagas Francisco Celio Maia , Yoshioka Eliane Tie Oba , Tavares-Dias Marcos
Published: February 2024

Purpose
This study investigated the anthelmintic efficacy of therapeutic baths with the essential oil of Piper marginatum against the monogeneans Anacanthorus spathulatus, Notozothecium janauachensis, Mymarothecium boegeri and Linguadactyloides brinkmanni in Colossoma macropomum, and its hematological and histopathological effects on this fish.
Methods
Six therapeutic baths with 100 mg/L of the essential oil of P. marginatum and two control groups (water from the cultivation tank and water from the cultivation tank + 70% alcohol) were used for 20 min every two days.
Results
The therapeutic baths with 100 mg/L of the essential oil of P. marginatum had efficacy of 42.8% against monogeneans of C. macropomum gills. Toxicity was low for C. macropomum, because there were few physiological and histopathological changes that did not compromise the functioning of the gills of this fish.
Conclusion
Short therapeutic baths with 100 mg/L of the essential oil of P. marginatum had low efficacy for controlling monogeneans in C. macropomum and thus cannot be recommended.
Open versus mini-invasive partial and radical nephrectomy complications: results from the French national health database.
Authors: Pascal Guillaume , Eschwège Pascal , Salleron Julia , Balkau Beverley , Hubert Jacques , Mazeaud Charles
Published: February 2024

Background:Laparoscopic surgery is associated with a lower morbidity than open surgery. No recent data compared kidney cancer surgery in the French population using the National Health Insurance database (PMSI-MCO). We aimed to compare the surgical morbidity rates between laparoscopic and open laparotomy for kidney cancer.
Methods: The initial length of stay and complications parameters during the three postoperative months were described for renal cancer in every French center in 2018. We compared Relative Risks (RR [95% CI]) between laparoscopic and open surgery for both radical and partial nephrectomy.
Results: Among 8,162 patients, 3,525 had a radical nephrectomy, 978 open, 2,547 laparoscopic surgeries; 4,637 patients had partial nephrectomies, 1,778 open 2,859 laparoscopic surgeries. For radical surgery, the most common complications were urinary infections (7.8%), acute renal failure (8.9%), sepsis (8.4%), bleeding (9.3%), and postoperative anemia (5.9%); the RR for laparoscopic versus open surgery were respectively 0.68 [0.54;0.86], 0.71 [0.57;0.88], 0.69 [0.55;0.86], 0.83 [0.66;1.03], 0.56 [0.43;0.73]. For partial nephrectomies, the most common complications were urinary infections (7.7%), bleeding (11.6%), and postoperative anemia (5.8%), with RR of 0.71 [0.58;0.87], 0.61 [0.52;0.71], and 0.64 [0.51;0.81]. The mean length of stay was 7.7 for open radical nephrectomy, 6.3 for laparoscopic radical nephrectomy, 7.5 for open partial nephrectomy, and 5 for laparoscopic partial nephrectomy.
Conclusions: The laparoscopic approach had fewer postoperative complications and a shorter length of stay than open surgery for partial and radical nephrectomy. The PMSI analysis provided an exhaustive description of surgical practice for kidney cancer and surgical complications in France.
Similar functional structure and encroaching dynamics in two Juniperus species with contrasting distribution patterns
Authors: Ninot Josep M. , Anadon-Rosell Alba , Molino Aldo , Grau Oriol , Caminal Moisès , Casanovas Amanda , Carrillo Empar
Published: February 2024

In the valley of Espot, central Iberian Pyrenees, two congeneric species coincide in the same habitats, showing a similar encroaching ability as prostrate shrubs expanding on former rangeland. Out of this valley, however, while Juniperus communis is widespread from regional to Holarctic levels, J. sabina is only sparsely found in distant Palearctic regions, where it remains restricted to scarce locations.
We wanted to document and understand the dynamics of both species as drivers of landscape transformation, and to unveil which differences may explain their contrasting biogeographic performance. To do so, we analysed them in terms of plant traits, phenology, primary growth, population structure, and role in the landscape.
Juniperus communis and J. sabina showed similar strong investment to stress resistance, according to the functional traits measured (SLA, LDMC, leaf lifespan), although both species expanded laterally at similarly noticeable ratios. The populations of J. communis included more balanced age classes and showed good recruiting ability, which would enhance the active role of this species along secondary succession. In contrast, J. sabina showed a poor recruiting ability, with populations lacking juveniles and including notably old shrubs. Longevity and clonal performance in this species would explain its persistence only in particular locations scattered over distant regions. Therefore, contrasting plant distribution and ecology – i.e. widespread and active colonizer vs. secluded and relict– would be based on a few interspecific developmental and reproductive differences.
The impact of early palliative care interventions on the utilization of medical care resources for end-of-life patients
Authors: Lin Chia-Chia , Ho Tsing-Fen , Lin Chang-Hung , Tsai Nu-Man Tsai , Kuo Yu-Hung , Chien Ju-Huei
Published: February 2024

Background
Palliative care is gaining importance, particularly with the aging population. In Taiwan, the availability of palliative care has expanded, supported by reimbursement initiatives from the Taiwan National Health Insurance. The healthcare system in Taiwan is currently integrating more comprehensive palliative care payment benefit plans. However, incorporating palliative care services into the medical care of critically ill individuals nearing the end of life presents several challenges. This study aims to examine the impact of palliative care on the utilization of medical resources in end-of-life scenarios.
Methods
A total of 2,202 patients were included in this study. The primary diagnosis and intervention for palliative referral and consultation were based on the HNI code. Additionally, eight dependent indicators of medical resource utilization,30 days before death, were employed in this study.
Results
Hospice care for end-of-life patients was associated with less medical resource and aggressive care in the 30 days before death, including intensive care unit use (odds ratio [OR] = 0.468, 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.378–0.579, P < 0.001, cardiopulmonary resuscitation ([OR] = 0.247, 95% CI: 0.154–0.394, P < 0.001, endotracheal intubation ([OR] = 0.266, 95% CI: 0.191–0.372, P < 0.001, respiratory ventilator support ([OR] = 0.431, 95% CI: 0.348–0.533, P < 0.001) and blood transfusion ([OR] = 0.819, 95% CI: 0.667–1.005, P = 0.0555).
Conclusion
Patients at the end-of-life who received palliative care experienced a reduced incidence of aggressive medical interventions before death. These encompassed activities such as stays in the intensive care unit, cardiopulmonary resuscitation, endotracheal intubation, respiratory ventilator support, and blood transfusions. The utilization of medical resources varies among patients based on their specific diseases and comorbidities. Early intervention of palliative care or consultation, both for cancer and chronic disease patients, tends to result in less aggressive medical care interventions, including endotracheal intubation, respiratory ventilation, or even cardiopulmonary resuscitation in patients with severe illnesses.
Sex Hormones and Abdominal Muscle Area and Radiodensity in Men: The Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis
Authors: Osmancevic Amar , Allison Matthew , Miljkovic Iva , Vella Chantal A , Ouyang Pamela , Trimpou Penelope , Daka Bledar
Published: February 2024

Information on the associations of testosterone levels with abdominal muscle volume and quality in men is limited, while the role of estradiol and SHBG on these muscle characteristics are unclear. To investigate the association between fasting serum sex hormones and CT-derived abdominal muscle area and radiodensity in adult men. Cross sectional observational study using data from the Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis. A community-based sample of 907 men aged 45–84 years; 878 men with complete data were included in the analysis. CT scans of the abdomen were interrogated for muscle characteristics. Multivariable linear regressions were used to test the associations. After adjustment, higher levels of both total testosterone and estradiol were associated with higher abdominal muscle area (1.79, 0.1–3.4, & 1.79, 0.4–3.2, respectively). In the final analyses, levels of total testosterone showed a positive association, while an inverse relationship was observed for SHBG with abdominal muscle radiodensity (0.3, 0.0–0.6, & -0.34, -0.6 - -0.1, respectively). Our results indicate a complex association between sex hormones and abdominal muscle characteristics in men. Specifically, total testosterone and estradiol were associated with abdominal muscle area, while only total testosterone was associated with muscle radiodensity and SHBG was inversely associated with muscle radiodensity.
Safety and effectiveness of Escitalopram in an 8-week open study in social anxiety disorder patients at Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan: A Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Shah Syed Waqas Ali , Sher Mujahid , Khan Farhat Ali , Zahoor Muhammad , Esa Muhammad , Ullah Riaz , Zahoor Saira , Aman Akhtar , Rahim Abdur , Afridi Hamid Hussain , Sulaiman Muhammad , Ullah Bashir
Published: February 2024

A prospective cohort study was designed to investigate the safety and effectiveness of escitalopram (10–20 mg) in the treatment of social anxiety disorder (SAD), with a focus on the population of district Nowshera, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan. The study spanned eight weeks and aimed to assess the impact of escitalopram on patients diagnosed with SAD. The Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale (HARS) was employed by psychiatrists to measure social anxiety scores before and after the administration of escitalopram. The effectiveness of escitalopram in reducing SAD scores was assessed before and after treatment, using the Wilcoxon signed-rank test, with statistical significance set at P < 0.05. A total of 120 adult participants who were already using escitalopram as prescribed by their physician were enrolled in the study to evaluate the effectiveness of escitalopram. Among them, 57 patients aged between 18 and 39 years were identified as being at high risk of developing SAD. According to gender distribution, females accounted for 61.6% of the sample and exhibited a higher compliance rate compared to males. However, eight patients (6.6%) discontinued the treatment prematurely. The most commonly reported mild adverse drug reactions (ADRs) associated with escitalopram were weight gain and dry mouth, which were observed in both genders. Notably, ejaculation disorder was observed as a prominent ADR in males. The effectiveness of escitalopram was assessed using the Wilcoxon signed-rank test, which demonstrated a significant reduction in the mean social anxiety level score from 13.67 to the lowest possible level (p < 0.001), indicating statistical significance. The study findings indicate that the use of escitalopram resulted in significant symptom improvement, specifically a reduction in anxiety levels, among the patients. Furthermore, the study concluded that escitalopram exhibited a high compliance rate and was deemed safe, as it only led to mild ADRs. These positive outcomes support the effectiveness of escitalopram in the mentioned population for the treatment of SAD.
Automation of Flow Cytometry Data Analysis with Elastic Image Registration
Authors: Irvine Allison , Moustafa Mohamed Mahmoud , Patel Sahul , Patel Aniket , Hardardottir Lilja , Delvecchio Francesca , Foreman Taylor , Oak Jean , Bornheimer Scott J. , Cimbro Raffaello
Published: February 2024

Cell populations in flow cytometry are typically identified via visual manual gating, a time-consuming and error-prone approach to select subpopulations based on expression of cellular markers. Batch processing can be used to automate the analysis of bimodally distributed data but underperforms with highly variable data and continuously expressed markers. We developed a visual pattern recognition automated gating tool, BD Elastigate™ software (hereafter Elastigate), to recapitulate the visual process of manual gating by automatically adjusting gates to capture local variability. Elastigate converts histograms and two-dimensional plots into images and then uses elastic B-spline image registration to transform pre-gated training plot images and their gates to corresponding ungated target plot images, thereby adjusting for local variations. Elastigate was validated with biologically relevant datasets in CAR-T cell manufacturing, tumor-infiltrating immunophenotyping, and cytotoxicity assays (> 500 data files) and evaluated accuracy against corresponding manually gated analysis, using F1 score statistics. Elastigate performed similarly to manual gating, with average F1 scores of 0.95 for gates with > 5 cells and 0.981 for > 1000 cells. Elastigate F1 scores and easy implementation outperformed existing 2D plot autogating solutions. Elastigate, accessible as a FlowJo software plugin, uses minimal training samples to accurately automate gating of flow cytometry data while substantially reducing analysis time.
Causal Relationships between Gut Microbiota and Depression/Anxiety Disorders: A Two-Sample Mendelian Randomization Study
Authors: Fan Tianyue , Li Lingxiao , Chen Yi
Published: February 2024

Background
Evidence shows that the composition of the gut microbiota (GM) is associated with depression and anxiety disorders. However, the causal relationship between them remains controversial.
Methods
To investigate the potential causal relationship between the gut microbiota and depression/anxiety disorders and to identify specific bacterial taxa, we conducted a two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis on the gut microbiome implicated in depression and anxiety disorders. We incorporated summary data from a genome-wide association study (GWAS) of the microbiome derived from 7,738 individuals participating in the Dutch Microbiome Project (DMP) as our exposure variable. Concurrently, the GWAS of depression and anxiety disorders was employed as our outcome variable. The principal estimates were procured using the inverse-variance weighted (IVW) test complemented by four robust methods: MR Egger, weighted median, simple mode, and weighted mode. In addition, we performed comprehensive sensitivity and directionality analyses.
Results
The results showed that 5 bacterial taxa were positively correlated with depression, 6 were negatively correlated; 5 were positively correlated with anxiety disorders, and 11 were negatively correlated.
Conclusions
This study provides new insights into the connection between the gut microbiota and the pathogenesis of depression and anxiety disorders and offers new perspectives for the diagnosis and treatment of these disorders.
Integrating Machine Learning-Enhanced Immunopeptidomics and SARS-CoV-2 Population-Scale Analyses Unveils Novel Antigenic Features for Next-Generation COVID-19 Vaccines
Authors: Caron Etienne , Kovalchik Kevin , Hamelin David , Kubiniok Peter , Bourdin Benoite , Mostefai Fatima , Poujol Raphaël , Paré Bastien , Simpson Shawn , Sidney John , Bonneil Eric , Courcelles Mathieu , Saini Sunil Kumar , Kapoor Saketh , Weitzen Maya , Grenier Jean-Christophe , Gharsallaoui Bayrem , Maréchal Loïze , Wu Zhaoguan , Savoie Christopher , Sette Alessandro , Thibault Pierre , Sirois Isabelle , Smith Martin , Decaluwe Hélène , Hussin Julie , Lavallée-Adam Mathieu
Published: February 2024

Next-generation T-cell-directed vaccines for COVID-19 aim to induce durable T-cell immunity against circulating and future hypermutated SARS-CoV-2 variants. Mass Spectrometry (MS)-based immunopeptidomics holds promise for guiding vaccine design, but computational challenges impede the precise and unbiased identification of conserved T-cell epitopes crucial for vaccines against rapidly mutating viruses. We introduce a computational framework and analysis platform integrating a novel machine learning algorithm, immunopeptidomics, intra-host data, epitope immunogenicity, and geo-temporal CD8+ T-cell epitope conservation analyses. Central to our approach is MHCvalidator, a novel artificial neural network algorithm enhancing MS-based immunopeptidomics sensitivity by modeling antigen presentation and sequence features. MHCvalidator identified a novel nonconventional SARS-CoV-2 T-cell epitope presented by B7 supertype molecules, originating from a +1-frameshift in a truncated Spike (S) antigen, supported by ribo-seq data. Intra-host analysis of SARS-CoV-2 proteomes from ~100,000 COVID-19 patients revealed a prevalent S antigen truncation in ~51% of cases, exposing a rich source of frameshifted viral antigens. Our framework includes EpiTrack, a new computational pipeline tracking global mutational dynamics of MHCvalidator-identified SARS-CoV-2 CD8+ epitopes from vaccine BNT162b4. While most vaccine-encoded CD8+ epitopes exhibit global conservation from January 2020 to October 2023, a highly immunodominant A*01-associated epitope, especially in hospitalized patients, undergoes substantial mutations in Delta and Omicron variants. Our approach unveils unprecedented SARS-CoV-2 T-cell epitopes, elucidates novel antigenic features, and underscores mutational dynamics of vaccine-relevant epitopes. The analysis platform is applicable to any viruses, and underscores the need for continual vigilance in T-cell vaccine development against the evolving landscape of hypermutating SARS-CoV-2 variants.
Survival and mutational analysis of small cell carcinoma in pan-cancer
Authors: Yang Chunqian , Wei Ting
Published: February 2024

Background:
This study aims to delve into the differences and commonalities among small cell carcinomas (SCC) originating from different sites, including extrapulmonary small cell carcinoma (EPSCC) and small cell lung carcinoma (SCLC). We focus on understanding the trends in incidence, genomic characteristics, and treatment strategies for these subtypes, addressing the gaps in our knowledge of these rare and heterogeneous diseases.
Methods:
A comprehensive approach was employed using data from Cosmic, SEER, and GDSC databases. Epidemiological data were obtained from the SEER database, genomic mutation information from the Cosmic database, and drug sensitivity data from the GDSC database. Statistical tests were applied to analyze the data, revealing epidemiological variations in SCC across different populations and regions and identifying genomic variations.
Results:
Analysis indicates a significant difference in the incidence rates of EPSCC and SCLC, with EPSCC currently accounting for 2% − 4% of all SCC diagnoses. Genomic analysis unveils both shared and unique mutational landscapes between these two subtypes, guiding future therapeutic strategies. Tailored treatment plans were formulated based on the site of origin, and analysis of the SEER database highlighted epidemiological variations in SCC, emphasizing key factors associated with survival rates.
Conclusion:
This study provides in-depth insights into the differences and commonalities among small cell carcinomas originating from different sites, offering crucial clues for precision treatment strategies. The rising incidence of EPSCC underscores its clinical significance. These findings not only expand our understanding of SCC biology but also have profound implications for improving clinical treatment outcomes for patients..