bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Geo-biofilters for the removal of ammonia in the intensive aquaculture ponds
Authors: Chanakya Varma V , Sri Bala G , Nagaraju T V
Published: August 2024

Ammonia is the primary well-known carcinogen and harmful substance in intensive aquaculture waters. When it is released into the neighbouring canals, it poses a significant risk to the local fauna and flora as well as the human population. This paper examined the effectiveness of modified corncob ash-based geo-biofilters in a column test. The numerous biofiltration process parameters, their ammonia removal mechanism, and the kinetics of biofilters have all been examined. A Series of experiments were performed with the recirculated aquaculture waters, and lag times in the column tests. According to the findings, when the biofilter with continuous flow, it takes 26 cycles to entirely remove ammonia from polluted water, after which the cycle rate is maintained at a constant rate. This strategy might be a practical and affordable way to cleanse the waters used in intensive aquaculture.
Examining Coastal Alterations in the Godavari Delta Region using DSAS, Remote Sensing and GIS Techniques
Authors: Tharapatla Purushotam , Kinthada Nooka Ratnam , Gurram Murali Krishna
Published: August 2024

This research focuses on the Godavari delta coastline, extending from Upputeru Creek to Uppada Village in Andhra Pradesh, India. Spanning from 1977 to 2023, the study meticulously examines multi-temporal remote sensing datasets from 1977, 1988, 1992, 2001, 2016, and 2023. To establish an accurate shoreline configuration, this study employs image processing techniques leveraging algorithms such as the Land Surface Water Index (LSWI) and the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI). For computing erosion and accretion rates within the GIS environment, the Digital Shoreline Analysis System (DSAS) is utilized, employing 100-meter transect intervals and techniques including Linear Regression Rate (LRR), Endpoint Rate (EPR), and Weighted Linear Regression (WLR). The analysis delineates distinct zones in the Godavari delta coastal region, classifying them into areas of high erosion, low erosion, stable coastlines, and varying degrees of accretion. Significant erosion is identified in regions from the left bank of Vashista to Parupalem Beach and between the Vainateya River Mouth and Gowthami River Mouth. Meanwhile, areas of low erosion extend from the right bank of Vashista River Mouth to Anthervedi Beach, with stable coastlines identified from Kakinada to Uppada Beach and Upputeru Creek to Perrupalem Beach. Additionally, the study pinpoints high accretion along Kakinada Spit and relatively lower accretion along other shoreline segments. This comprehensive assessment yields critical insights into erosion and accretion dynamics, laying a foundation for informed coastal management strategies in the Godavari delta region.
Adsorption Studies of Hexavalent Chromium removal from aqueous solution using Helianthus Annuus
Authors: Birajdar Roopadevi B , Haware Annapurna , Reddy Gillela Naresh , Saranadagoudar Rajani , Tengli Prema , Ganta Mounika
Published: August 2024

Adsorption studies of hexavalent chromium (Cr (VI)) removal are particularly important due to the severe environmental and health concerns associated with this toxic form of chromium. Hexavalent chromium is a known carcinogen and can contaminate water sources through industrial discharges and other human activities. Sunflower cob, an agricultural waste material abundant in cellulose and lignocellulosic components, is utilized as a precursor for activated carbon synthesis. The activated carbon is prepared via a straightforward activation process involving chemical activation with Sodium Chloride (NaCl). Batch adsorption experiments are supported to assess the adsorption efficiency of the sunflower cob-derived activated carbon for Cr (VI) mitigation. The effects of multiple variables, including adsorbent dosage, pH of the solution, and contact time are systematically studied. The results indicated that the activated carbon evolved from sunflower cob exhibited commendable adsorption capacity for hexavalent chromium removal. Maximum adsorption is reported in an acidic environment with different Impregnation ratios (I.R) -0.25, 0.5, 0.75 with removal efficiency of 98.6%, 98.8%, and 98.8% respectively at pH 1.25.
Adsorptive Removal of Ciprofloxacin from Aqueous Media with Graphene based Composites
Authors: Padmaja V , Sri Chandana P
Published: August 2024

Improper disposal of pharmaceuticals and their derivatives poses major problems. Development of Effective treatment protocols for the elimination need an urgent consideration. Graphene-oxide (GO), a mono-atomic layer of carbon with a single nanometer thickness is an excellent adsorbent material because of the huge specific surface area. Ciprofloxacin (CIP) is an antibiotic which is a third-generation fluoroquinolone agent is popularly prescribed worldwide eventually ending up in wastewater. In this study, adsorptive removal of CIP was studied with GO, TiO2 and GO-TiO2 nanocomposite to establish the treatment system. Materials were properly characterized for morphology and structure using Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM), and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). Removal of CIP was quantified by using UV- Visible spectrophotometer. The optimal experimental conditions for the removal of 10 mg/L of initial concentration of CIP were neutral pH, 1 g/L of adsorbent, and 20 min of contact time. Adsorption of CIP on to GO and GO-TiO2 followed Pseudo-first order kinetics, multilayer adsorption pattern as depicted by Freundlich isotherm best fitting and the rate limiting was due to boundary layer diffusion. Adsorption of CIP was high at neutral pH indicating the suitability of studied adsorbents use for real treatment without additional chemicals. The obtained results were demonstrating the efficacy of the method for the removal of CIP from the water matrix.
A charge pump phase-locked loop with low phase noise based on ring oscillator
Authors: Guo Aiying , Qin Shiwei , Xu Maoxiang
Published: August 2024

This paper presents a low-phase-noise charge pump phase-locked loop (PLL) based on a ring oscillator. It uses a 4-stage ring oscillator to provide orthogonal signals and exhibit a phase noise of -102 dBc/Hz at a carrier offset of 1 MHz. When powered by a 1.2 V DC supply, the static current of the PLL is less than 4 mA. The PLL is driven by a 40 MHz clock source and outputs a square wave at 2.56 GHz, with a phase noise of -94.8 dBc/Hz at 1 MHz offset. The circuit is implemented using a 55 nm CMOS process, with a final layout area of only 0.06 mm2.
Anti-pollution intelligent window control system based on air detection
Authors: Liang Zhuo
Published: August 2024

This paper introduces a new type of intelligent window automatic control system. With single-chip microcomputer STC89C52 as the central control unit and wind speed sensing, raindrop sensing, temperature and humidity sensing, CO sensing, CO2 sensing and formaldehyde sensing as the signal detection unit, it operates with the dual energy supply of solar energy and power grid to sense outdoor meteorological changes and indoor and outdoor air quality in real time, and performs data processing through single-chip microcomputer. The stepper motor is controlled to open and close the window to improve indoor air quality in an environmentally friendly way. At the same time, the other end of the window is connected to the display screen, which concretely displays the data and status of the window operation. The control system has the functions of automatically closing the window on rainy days, automatically opening the window when the indoor harmful gas exceeds the standard, and remote infrared control of the window opening/closing.
Intelligent LED lighting control system design and realization
Authors: Zhou Ding
Published: August 2024

LED lighting is widely used; in order to adapt to a variety of applications, an intelligent LED lighting control system is designed. The system takes an STM32 intelligent chip as the core, including a voice module, Bluetooth module, and LED constant current driver chip. It can use voice to control the opening and closing of the lighting system and grade set LED brightness. It can be switched to automatic mode, and control LED lighting brightness automatically adjusted with the light. With the cell phone Bluetooth assistant, the switch time of the LED lighting system can be set wirelessly and in other functions. Through actual testing, the system realizes intelligent LED control and various control methods operate normally. Through intelligent control, you can choose different control methods in combination with the actual application, flexible application to a variety of scenes, and with practical value.
Study of general framework of ferroelectric transistors-based reservoir computing platform
Authors: Cao Yiming , Liu Tao , Xiong Lican , Jin Leisheng
Published: August 2024

In this work, we aim to investigate the inherent correlations between the performance of physical reservoir computing (PRC) and the general physical model of the ferroelectric transistors that is one of the most important candidates for realizing PRC. The physical model of the ferroelectric transistors is constructed based on the Landau-Ginzburg equation. By analyzing the polarisation state of ferroelectrics and the nonlinear dynamics of the model, a PRC that utilizes a single ferroelectric transistor as a physical node is designed, and the typical nonlinear autoregressive moving-average (NARMA) task is employed for verifying the PRC. It is shown that the normalized mean square error (NMSE) can reach 2.8 × 10-3. Finally, the interplay between the different ferroelectric polarisation dynamics and the RC’s performance is discussed by performing numerical simulations on the hyperparameters of the ferroelectric transistor as well as the RC network.
A non-reciprocal LC filter structure and its design methodology
Authors: Jiao Yuzhao , Wang Xuetian
Published: August 2024

This paper analyses the differences between the non-reciprocal filter design and reciprocal filter design process, gives the difficulties in the non-reciprocal filter design process, and finally concludes the general methodology of non-reciprocal filter design. After the general method is given, a third-order LC non-reciprocal filter with a center frequency of 140 MHz and a bandwidth of 20 MHz is designed and simulated from a third-order reciprocal bandpass filter circuit. The results obtained from the testing of the designed and processed third-order non-reciprocal filter show that this filter can achieve non-reciprocal transmission in the frequency range of 132 MHz-152 MHz with a forward transmission insertion loss of 8.2 dB, an isolation of more than 8 dB, and a maximum isolation of 11.6 dB in the band.
A novel programmable wide swing buffer for OLED source driver
Authors: Zhang Jianhua , Ma Guilong
Published: August 2024

This paper presents the design of an output buffer with DAC functionality, which meets the requirements of small size, low power consumption, and high precision for OLED source driver chips. The two-stage DAC has a smaller area compared to traditional resistor string DACs, providing higher precision grayscale voltages that better meet the requirements of display drivers. The buffer utilizes a rail-to-rail input stage and Class AB output stage to achieve a wide input-output voltage range. Cascode Miller compensation is employed to improve stability, and a programmable tail current source with current steering DAC is used to realize 3-bit interpolation, saving overall chip area and power consumption. In the HLMC 55 nm CMOS process, the buffer has a rise time of 0.52 us and a fall time of 0.6 us for input voltages ranging from 0-1.2 V. The buffer occupies an area of 35×30 um2.
Design of a R-2R type digital to analog converter with low noise and low power consumption
Authors: Liu Xu , Wei Shuhua , Zhang Jing , Yan Jiang
Published: August 2024

With the development of integrated circuits, digital-to-analog converter (DAC), as a bridge between the analog world and the digital world, is more and more used in the way of integrated circuits on chips. In this context, a 16-bit R-2R DAC for high-precision sensors is proposed in this paper, which is realized by a 0.18 μm process. The DAC adopts a resistor voltage divider type to meet the requirements of low noise and low power consumption and uses a segmented structure to reduce the number of CMOS switches. The switch structure is optimized to reduce channel charge injection, and the resistance matching of switch resistance and feedback resistance achieves high precision requirements. After the design is completed, through pre-simulation, special layout drawing, and post-simulation, the final sampling frequency is 0.8 MHz ∼ 3.2 MHz, and the voltage output is 10 ∼ 14 V after a high-voltage operational amplifier. The spectrum analysis shows that the noise floor is about -135 dB, the power consumption of the core structure of the DAC is about 0.5 mW, and the signal-to-noise ratio is about 87 dB. This project has achieved good performance indicators and can play a role in high-precision sensors.
Bending mechanics simulation and device fabrication for module stacking design of flexible micro-LEDs
Authors: Yuan Chunge , Bao Junjie , Zhao Jinyang , Chen Lixuan
Published: August 2024

When the display device is bent, stress is generated due to the strain on the stacked layer. The driving circuit layer and LED layer of flexible Micro-LED devices have a large modulus. If the stress exceeds the permissible limit of the layer material, the device will be damaged. This paper presents a simulation of the bending stress on flexible Micro-LED displays and achieves the structural design of the neutral layer near the TFT and LED. A 7.1-inch flexible Micro-LED display was fabricated. The display exhibits excellent optical performance, with a peak brightness exceeding 2000 nits, a viewing angle greater than 160°, and BT.2020>90%. It can withstand 100, 000 bends without developing new defects with a 10 mm internal bending radius. The change in brightness before and after bending is <1%, and the change in color dots is <0.001.
A low power and low noise bandgap reference design
Authors: Yang Jiale , Yan Jiang , Zhang Jing , Wei Shuhua
Published: August 2024

The bandgap reference circuit is widely used in analog, digital, and various other circuits. However, achieving low noise and power consumption presents challenges. Process variations can cause fluctuations in output voltage. This paper employs resistance trim to correct process-related errors, ensuring precise output voltage. VBE linearization compensation minimizes temperature drift. Simulation results show temperature drift below 10 ppm/°C within -45°C to 125°C. For the operational amplifier, a folded cascode current mirror and chopper structure achieve high gain and low power consumption, which eliminates low-frequency noise. The amplifier draws around 7 uA at 1.8 V, with a gain of about 84 dB, a Gain-Bandwidth Product of 229 kHz, and an output voltage noise of 257.04 nV/√Hz at 10 Hz. The entire circuit operates at 1.8 V, consuming 20.26 uA, with an output voltage noise of 5.38 uV/√Hz at 10 Hz.
A Class-AB LDO regulator with high stability suitable for multiple input reference voltages
Authors: Ge Zhongyuan , Dong Zizheng , Li Yingtao
Published: August 2024

A Class-AB LDO capable of sinking/sourcing current from/to the load is presented. Unlike conventional LDO structures, the input reference voltage of this circuit is adjustable and has a wide adjustment range. The circuit has been demonstrated in a 0.35 um BCD process at a 3.3 V supply voltage. Its low-frequency sourcing 10 mA current, sinking 10 mA current and no-load PSRR are -80.3 dB, -106.1 dB, and -83.4 dB, respectively. The voltage undershoot is 69 mV when the output changes from sinking 10 mA to sourcing 10 mA in 10 us, and the overshoot is 64 mV for the opposite process. The minimum phase margin is 50 degrees at 0.1-10 mA load current. The area of the entire LDO circuit is 0.28 mm2, including the protection circuit.
Metamerism problem in the colour recipe calculation
Authors: Ludaš Anja , Ira Glogar Martinia , Ercegović Ražić Sanja
Published: August 2024

The analysis presented in this paper was carried out in the context of two main objectives. One was the study of the phenomenon of metamerism, and the other was the investigation of the possibility of applying new acid dyes in relation to the already known ones, from the aspect of durability, and ecological and economic sustainability. The analysis was carried out on samples dyed under industrial conditions in the Jadran d.d. sock factory. The aim was to show the phenomenon of metamerism as one of the key parameters of quality control in dyeing, which, if present, prevents the conversion of production to new dyes that would allow faster and cheaper production with a higher degree of dye exhaustion, which certainly has an impact on economic and environmental sustainability. The analysis of the metamerism was performed spectrophotometrically and the results are shown in a form of the reflectance curves, the numeric evaluation of colour parameters (L*, C*, h) and the positioning of the colours in the a*/b* colour space. The analysis and comparison of the colorations obtained with two types of dyes (new generic and known) did not show a great difference in the occurrence of the phenomenon of metamerism. This speaks in favour of the further development of new dyes that, whose improved properties, would contribute to an improvement in the context of sustainability, although this part is still within the scope of the research hypothesis that continues and whose results will be published in further publications.
Full SMAS: Endoscopy-Assisted Full Facial Rejuvenation
Authors: Casagrande Carlos , Facin Emilio , Saltz Renato
Published: August 2024

Background

Every region of the face may bear the signs of aging. Treating isolated areas without adequate anatomical knowledge can lead to incomplete or artificial-looking results and decrease patient satisfaction. The authors’ “Full SMAS” technique for complete rejuvenation addresses the anatomical continuity of the superficial musculoaponeurotic system (SMAS)-platysma to the deep-plane suspension of the face.

Objectives

The aim of this study was to evaluate the contribution of endoscopic techniques to traditional facelift and neck lift procedures. Procedures treating from the frontal and temporal regions of the superior part of the face to its mid and lower parts, including the cervical region, were evaluated.

Methods

Treatment of the 3 sub-SMAS layers of the face was performed using endoscopy for repositioning the frontal region and midface. This procedure involved frontal and zygomatic-masseter ligament release, open treatment of the lower subplatysmal section, and the complete release of the retaining ligaments of the face and approach to the jowl.

Results

One hundred sixty-one patients underwent the Full SMAS technique, leading to long-lasting results, low complication rates, and high patient satisfaction.

Conclusions

The Full SMAS is a systematic technique that provides complete facial rejuvenation by combining an endoscopic approach for the temporal and midface regions with traditional open approaches for the lower face and neck. Treating the temporal and midface regions by minimally invasive techniques (endoscopy) reduces the possibility of permanent nerve injuries, provides smaller scars, and creates natural, long-lasting results.

Level of Evidence: 4 (Therapeutic)
The relationship between neutral genetic diversity and performance in wild arthropod populations
Authors: Ho Tammy Ai Tian , Downing Philip A , Schou Mads F , Bechsgaard Jesper , Thomsen Philip Francis , Jorgensen Tove H , Bilde Trine
Published: August 2024

Larger effective populations (Ne) are characterized by higher genetic diversity, which is expected to predict population performance (average individual performance that influences fitness). Empirical studies of the relationship between neutral diversity and performance mostly represent species with small Ne, while there is limited data from the species-rich and ecologically important arthropods that are assumed to have large Ne but are threatened by massive declines. We performed a systematic literature search and used meta-analytical models to test the prediction of a positive association between neutral genetic diversity and performance in wild arthropods. From 14 relevant studies of 286 populations, we detected a weak (r = 0.15) but nonsignificant positive association both in the full data set (121 effect sizes) and a reduced data set accounting for dependency (14 effect sizes). Theory predicts that traits closely associated with fitness show a relatively stronger correlation with neutral diversity; this relationship was upheld for longevity and marginally for reproduction. Our analyses point to major knowledge gaps in our understanding of relationships between neutral diversity and performance. Future studies using genome-wide data sets across populations could guide more powerful designs to evaluate relationships between adaptive, deleterious and neutral diversity and performance.
Case report: thigh hidradenoma masquerading as lipoma
Authors: Alhaqbani Abdullah , Alawfi Homoud , Alahmadatea Firas , Almalki Sami
Published: August 2024

Hidradenomas are benign adnexal neoplasms, which were recently been subdivided into two groups: eccrine differentiation (poroid hidradenomas) or apocrine differentiation (clear cell hidradenomas) with the latter being rarer. These types of tumors have been associated with recurrence and malignant transformation; however, recurrence and malignancy are considered very rare. We present a case report of a 35-year-old male who presented with two lumps, clinically representing simple lipomas but one of them turned to be a hidradenoma. A 35-year-old gentleman not known to have any medical illnesses and surgically free, presented to our general surgery clinic complaining of two slow-growing (over 3 years) painless lumps, one in the right upper thigh and the other one in the left shoulder. The patient denied any previous history of trauma or infection nor any history of discharge or overlying skin changes, and there were no clinical features that might suggest the presence of malignancy. Upon examination, both lumps were firm, freely mobile, non-tender, intact overlying skin, with no skin changes, and no regional lymphadenopathy. Prior to excision, our preliminary impression was lipoma for both masses. Surgical excision was carried out with clear margins; each mass was labeled separately, and specimens were sent for histopathology. Histopathological diagnosis of the left shoulder mass was consistent with lipoma; however, the right upper thigh mass turned to be a hidradenoma. Hidradenomas are uncommon benign neoplasms with varied types. Recurrence and transformation into malignancy have been reported in some cases. Complete surgical excision with negative margins and further follow-up with the patient are crucial to prevent such consequences. Clinical diagnosis can be difficult; however, the management is the same with surgical removal as it will give us the definitive diagnosis with the pathology report.
Optimizing Aesthetic Outcomes after Retroglandular Breast Implant Explantation
Authors: Maciel Patrícia J.
Published: August 2024

The safety of silicone breast implants has been questioned due to concerns such as the risk of associated lymphoma, as well as rheumatological and systemic symptoms. This has resulted in an increased demand for explantation, posing the challenge of addressing stigmas related to implant removal. There is a dearth of literature on techniques for restoring breast contour postexplantation. After implant removal, the original breast anatomy is altered, and depressed areas may manifest in random locations. To reposition the breast tissue displaced by the implant, we enlarge the retroglandular pocket and subsequently use sutures for centripetal traction, relocating the tissue back to the footprint area but now in an improved position, delineating the breast contour. This maneuver enables us to restore the breast contour to an anatomical condition akin to preimplantation; diminish the final explantation defect, creating a more suitable pocket for delicate mastopexy flaps; recruit breast tissue, allowing internal sutures to conceal tissue irregularities; and redesign the breast contour area on the chest to achieve better symmetry.
MRI and Ultrasound Visualization of a Nerve Repair Implant Containing Nitinol
Authors: Akerman Michelle , Sneag Darryl B. , Gfrerer Lisa , Endo Yoshimi , Valenti Alyssa B. , Clements Isaac P. , Tan Ek T.
Published: August 2024

Background:

Nerve Tape is a novel nerve repair device containing nitinol microhooks that provide sutureless attachment for nerve coaptation. This study evaluated visualization of Nerve Tape on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and ultrasound, with the objective of exploring its potential as an imaging marker for localizing nerve repair sites.

Methods:

Phantom imaging experiments were first conducted to assess the visibility of Nerve Tape on MRI and ultrasound. A cadaveric limb investigation was then performed to further characterize the magnetic susceptibility patterns of Nerve Tape and to confirm its localization at the repair site.

Results:

Phantom imaging experiments demonstrated clear visualization of Nerve Tape on both MRI and ultrasound, with Nerve Tape microhooks appearing as signal voids on MRI and hyperechoic foci on ultrasound. Subsequent cadaveric limb investigation further characterized Nerve Tape’s magnetic susceptibility patterns and confirmed localization of the device at the repair site. The physical dimensions of Nerve Tape and locations observed on both MRI and ultrasound matched design and measurements made during surgery. Measurement discrepancies could be attributed to magnetic susceptibility artifacts in MRI, and to comet tail and shadowing effects in ultrasound.

Conclusions:

Repairs performed with Nerve Tape can be reliably localized for imaging, potentially facilitating assessment of repair site integrity and further advancement toward image-based monitoring of nerve regeneration. Further research, including in vivo human studies, is warranted to confirm these preliminary findings.
Applying Watson’s Theory of Transpersonal Caring to Situate Caregiver Accounts of End-of-Life Experiences Within a Caregiving Context
Authors: Kinsella Michael , Fordham Pamela N. , Williams Monica , Peters William
Published: August 2024

End-of life-experiences, including profoundly meaningful dreams, visions, and sensations, may be experienced by caregivers at the time of a patient’s death, yet few caregivers feel comfortable discussing these experiences with colleagues or other members of the care unit. This article presents findings from a descriptive qualitative study of end-of-life experiences reported by caregivers and frames these experiences within Watson’s Theory of Transpersonal Caring, which is a holistic approach to health care that emphasizes the transpersonal caring relationship. Watson’s Theory is particularly useful for framing end-of-life experiences in a caregiving context as it avoids debates about the nature of these experiences and emphasizes their therapeutic value in human caring. This article also argues that it is time for open discussions about end-of-life experiences reported by caregivers and what they might teach us about death and dying.
Airway Stents for Excessive Central Airway Collapse
Authors: Pu Chan Yeu , Ospina-Delgado Daniel , Kheir Fayez , Avendano Camilo A. , Parikh Mihir , Beattie Jason , Swenson Kai E. , Wilson Jennifer , Gangadharan Sidharta P. , Majid Adnan
Published: August 2024

Background:

Short-term airway stent placement (stent evaluation) has been employed to evaluate whether patients with excessive central airway collapse (ECAC) will benefit from tracheobronchoplasty. Although retrospective studies have explored the impact of stent placement on ECAC, prospective randomized controlled trials are absent.

Methods:

This was a randomized open-label trial comparing patients receiving airway stent placement and standard medical treatment (intervention group) versus standard medical treatment alone (control group) for ECAC. At baseline, patients’ respiratory symptoms, self-reported measures, and functional capabilities were assessed. Follow-up evaluations occurred 7 to 14 days postintervention, with an option for the control group to crossover to stent placement. Follow-up evaluations were repeated in the crossover patients.

Results:

The study enrolled 17 patients in the control group [medical management (MM)] and 14 patients in the intervention group. At follow-up, 15 patients in the MM crossed over to the stent group, resulting in a total of 29 patients in the combined stent group (CSG). Subjectively (shortness of breath and cough), 45% of the CSG exhibited improvement with the intervention compared with just 12% in the MM. The modified St. George Respiratory Questionnaire score in the CSG improved significantly from 61.2 at baseline to 52.5 after stent placement (-8.7, P = 0.04). With intervention, the 6-minute walk test in CSG improved significantly from 364 meters to 398 meters (34 m, P < 0.01). The MM did not show a significant change in the St. George Respiratory Questionnaire score or 6-minute walk test distance.

Conclusion:

Short-term airway stent placement in patients with ECAC significantly improves respiratory symptoms, quality of life, and exercise capacity.
Comparison of adalimumab with methotrexate for psoriasis: A meta-analysis of randomized controlled studies
Authors: Yang Xiaolin , Liu Yan
Published: August 2024

Introduction:

The efficacy of adalimumab versus methotrexate for psoriasis remained controversial. We conducted this systematic review and meta-analysis to explore the influence of adalimumab versus methotrexate on treatment efficacy for psoriasis patients.

Methods:

We have searched PubMed, EMbase, Web of Science, EBSCO, and Cochrane Library databases through August 2023 for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) assessing the efficacy of adalimumab versus methotrexate for psoriasis. This meta-analysis was performed using the random-effect or fixed-effect model based on the heterogeneity.

Results:

Four RCTs and 733 patients with psoriasis were included in this meta-analysis. Overall, compared with methotrexate treatment, adalimumab treatment was associated with improved Psoriasis Area and Severity Index 75 (PASI 75, odd ratio [OR] = 4.50; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 2.81–7.22; P < .00001), physician global assessment (PGA) 0/1 response (OR = 4.86; 95% CI = 3.02–7.82; P < .00001), PASI 100 (OR = 3.01; 95% CI = 1.33–6.80; P = .008) and decreased Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI, standard mean difference [SMD] = −0.60; 95% CI = −0.84 to −0.36; P < .00001), but exhibited no impact on PASI 90 (OR = 3.30; 95% CI = 0.77–14.20; P = .11), adverse events (OR = 1.23; 95% CI = 0.26–5.87; P = .79) or serious adverse events (OR = 2.59; 95% CI = 0.49–13.79; P = .26).

Conclusions:

Adalimumab was superior to methotrexate for the treatment of psoriasis.
Depression scores and its relationship with sexual quality of life in women with type 1 and type 2 diabetes: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Topaloğlu Ören Ekin Dila , Ünsal Avdal Elif , Sofulu Funda , Polat Gökşen , Düzgün Gönül , Pamuk Gülseren
Published: August 2024

Diabetes is an important public health problem with increasing prevalence worldwide. However, the prevalence of diabetes in women is increasing. Women with diabetes have many physical and psychological complications. It has been reported that complications experienced by women with diabetes negatively affect both their sexual and mental health. This study aimed to determine the sexual quality of life (SQoL) and depression scores in women with type 1 diabetes (T1D) and type 2 diabetes (T2D), the relationship between them, and to examine the factors predicting the SQoL. This study was analytical and cross-sectional. This study was conducted with 440 women with diabetes (206 women with type 1 and 234 women with type 2 diabetes) who came to the endocrine policlinic of a university hospital in Izmir, western Türkiye, between April and October 2023. Data were collected using the “Individual Description Form,” “Sexual Quality of Life Questionnaire” and “Beck Depression Inventory.” Correlation and multiple regression analyses were conducted to investigate the relationship between SQoL and depression scores. When women with T1D and T2D were compared, it was determined that women with T2D had worse SQoL and higher depression scores (P < .05). Both T1D and T2D women were found to have a strong negative correlation between SQoL and depression scores (r = −0.753; −0.837; P < .05). Age (B = −0.291), body mass index (BMI; B = −2.747), type 2 diabetes (B = −3.074), and depression scores (B = −1.898) were predictive factors of SQoL in women with diabetes (R
2 = 0.670; P < .05). In our study, it was determined that depression scores were increased in women with diabetes mellitus with decreased SQoL. When T1D and T2D were compared, T2D had worse SQoL and higher depression scores. It also revealed that age, BMI, T2D, and depression scores affected SQoL. Healthcare professionals especially nurses should provide education and counseling to women with T1D and T2D about sexual life and mental health.
Causal link between docosahexaenoic acid and osteoporosis: A 2-sample Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Li Lei , Wen Yang , Liu Dong , Lan Jia-Ping , Yang Bo
Published: August 2024

To explore the causal relationship between docosahexaenoic acid and osteoporosis. Possible causal links were investigated using a 2-sample Mendelian randomization study. Its genetic correlation was estimated using chained disequilibrium regression. Sensitivity tests were also performed. There was a causal association between docosahexaenoic acid and osteoporosis, and docosahexaenoic acid was a risk factor for osteoporosis (P = .033, odds ratio [95% CI] = 1.099 [1.008–1.198]). For every 1 standard deviation increase in docosahexaenoic acid lev, the risk of developing osteoporosis increased by 9.900%. The genetic correlation between docosahexaenoic acid (h2_Z = 5.260, P = 1.430e−7), osteoporosis (h2_Z = 8.780, P = 1.160e−98), and genes was significant, but there was a weak genetic correlation between docosahexaenoic acid and osteoporosis (rg = −0.040, P = 1.630e−18). Blood levels of docosahexaenoic acid are causally linked to osteoporosis and are a risk factor for osteoporosis. However, this causal link is not brought about by genetic variation. The exact mechanism needs to be explored further.
A rare association of pheochromocytoma, paraganglioma, and pituitary adenoma (3PA): A case report and literature review
Authors: Rahmati Rahem , Meftah Elahe , Hamidi Hamed , Esfahanian Fatemeh
Published: August 2024

Rationale:

3P association (3PA) is a rare condition with co-occurrence of pituitary adenoma and pheochromocytoma/paraganglioma. There have been less than a hundred documented cases of 3PA, which can be sporadic or related to genetic mutations. The present case report describes the first Iranian patient with 3PA and a 90th case of 3PA in the available literature.

Patient concerns and interventions:

A 36-year-old Caucasian male was admitted with headache and sudden increase in blood pressure. An abdominal CT scan revealed a retroperitoneal mass posterior to the inferior vena cava, later removed and diagnosed as a pheochromocytoma. Four years later, he noticed occasional mild headaches and a painless mass on the right side of his neck. The ultrasonography evaluations suggested a carotid body tumor, which was surgically removed. About a month after his second surgery, the severity of the patient’s headaches worsened, and he developed right homonymous hemianopia. A brain MRI showed a mass in favor of macroadenoma, craniopharyngioma, or meningioma, and elevated prolactin level led to the diagnosis of macroprolactinoma.

Diagnoses:

Based on the provided history, this patient was diagnosed with 3PA, and a genetic study identified a positive succinate-dehydrogenase-complex subunit b mutation, possibly linked to his family history of carotid body tumor.

Outcomes:

He has remained symptom-free during his visits every 3 months.

Lessons:

The number of cases diagnosed with 3PA worldwide is increasing. Using clinical and genetic assessments, we can timely diagnose and adequately monitor individuals with or at risk of 3PA.
Causal associations of interleukins and osteoporosis: A genetic correlation study
Authors: Chen Huihuang , Lin Haibin , Dai Jianhui
Published: August 2024

The association between interleukins and osteoporosis has attracted much attention these days. However, the causal relationship between them is uncertain. Hence, this study performed a Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis to investigate the causal effects of interleukins on osteoporosis. The summary data for interleukins and osteoporosis came from 4 different genome-wide association studies. Significant and independent (P < 5 × 10−6; r
2 < 0.001, 10,000 kbp) single-nucleotide polymorphisms were extracted for MR analysis. The inverse-variance weighted and other methods were used for MR analysis, while sensitivity analyses were conducted to test the reliability and stability. The positive causal effects of interleukin-7 on osteoporosis (odds ratio = 1.084; 95% confidence interval: 1.010–1.163; P = .025) were observed. No causal relationship was found between other interleukins and osteoporosis. In the sensitivity analysis, the results did not show the presence of pleiotropy and heterogeneity. Therefore, the results were robust for the MR analysis. This study revealed that interleukin-7 was positively related to osteoporosis and that other interleukins were not related to osteoporosis.
Dietary intake of potassium, vitamin E, and vitamin C emerges as the most significant predictors of cardiovascular disease risk in adults
Authors: Wang Yue , Han Liyuan , Ling Shiliang , Sha Yuyi , Sun Hongpeng
Published: August 2024

Prediction models were developed to assess the risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) based on micronutrient intake, utilizing data from 90,167 UK Biobank participants. Four machine learning models were employed to predict CVD risk, with performance evaluation metrics including area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC), accuracy, recall, specificity, and F1-score. The eXtreme Gradient Boosting (XGBoost) model was utilized to rank the importance of 11 micronutrients in cardiovascular health. Results indicated that vitamin E, calcium, vitamin C, and potassium intake were associated with a reduced risk of CVD. The XGBoost model demonstrated the highest performance with an AUC of 0.952, highlighting potassium, vitamin E, and vitamin C as key predictors of CVD risk. Subgroup analysis revealed a stronger correlation between calcium intake and CVD risk in older adults and those with higher BMI, while vitamin B6 intake showed a link to CVD risk in women. Overall, the XGBoost model emphasized the significance of potassium, vitamin E, and vitamin C intake as primary predictors of CVD risk in adults, with age, sex, and BMI potentially influencing the importance of micronutrient intake in predicting CVD risk.
Pneumonia in an elderly Tibetan male caused by Shewanella algae: A case report
Authors: Fu Xiao-Hong , Feng Huan-Xiang , Huang Qian , Gou Wei
Published: August 2024

Rationale:

Shewanella algae are Gram-negative bacteria that are widely found in aquatic habitats and rarely cause lung infections in inland areas.

Patient concerns:

Cough with light-yellow phlegm for 2 weeks.

Diagnoses:

The final diagnosis was bacterial pneumonia.

Interventions:

The patient was treated with ceftazidime (2 g, every 12 h) for 1 week.

Outcomes:

The patient’s lung infection improved and he was discharged.

Lessons:

This case highlights a rare occurrence of lung infection caused by Shewanella algae in elderly Tibetan men residing in non-marine environments.
Serum and urinary biomarkers of vancomycin-induced acute kidney injury: A prospective, observational analysis
Authors: Park Sang-In , Yu Uijeong , Oh Won Sup , Ryu Sook Won , Son Seongmin , Lee Sunhwa , Baek Hyunjeong , Park Ji In
Published: August 2024

Vancomycin, a first-line drug for treating methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus infections, is associated with acute kidney injury (AKI). This study involved an evaluation of biomarkers for AKI detection and their comparison with traditional serum creatinine (SCr). We prospectively enrolled patients scheduled to receive intravenous vancomycin for methicillin-resistant S aureus infection. Blood samples for pharmacokinetic assessment and SCr and cystatin C (CysC) measurements were collected at baseline and on days 3, 7, and 10 from the initiation of vancomycin administration (day 1). Urinary biomarkers, including kidney injury molecule 1 (KIM-1), neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin, and clusterin, were collected from days 1 to 7 and adjusted for urinary creatinine levels. The estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) was calculated using the Chronic Kidney Disease Epidemiology Collaboration equation. Of the 42 patients, 6 experienced vancomycin-induced AKI. On day 7, the change from baseline eGFR using CysC (ΔeGFRCysC) showed a stronger correlation with vancomycin area under the curve (r = −0.634, P < .001) than that using SCr (ΔeGFRSCr; r = −0.437, P = .020). ΔeGFRSCr showed no significant correlation with vancomycin pharmacokinetic in patients with body mass index ≥23. The median (interquartile range) level of KIM-1 (μg/mg) was significantly higher in the AKI group (0.006 [0.005–0.008]) than in the non-AKI group (0.004 [0.001–0.005]) (P = .039, Mann–Whitney U test), with area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (95% confidence interval) of 0.788 (0.587–0.990). Serum CysC, particularly in overweight individuals or those with obesity, along with urinary KIM-1 are important predictors of vancomycin-induced AKI. These results may aid in selecting better biomarkers than traditional SCr for detecting vancomycin-induced AKI.
Advances in influence factors of ultrasound-guided percutaneous thermal ablations for benign thyroid nodules: A review
Authors: Wang Liying , Zheng Shusen
Published: August 2024

Ultrasound-guided percutaneous thermal ablation is a safe and effective minimally invasive treatment for benign thyroid nodules, which is now widely used in the world. Studies have found that some preoperative factors played an important role in the outcome of thermal ablation. This paper mainly reviews the various factors affecting the efficacy of ultrasound-guided percutaneous thermal ablation in the treatment of benign thyroid nodules to provide a variety of perspectives for the clinical and to promote the postoperative outcome of patients.
Individual and combined effects of famine exposure and obesity parameters on type 2 diabetes in middle-aged and older adults: A population-based cross-sectional study
Authors: Li Xiaoping , Li Xiaoguang , Sun Lu , Yang Liu , Wang Congzhi , Yuan Ting , Lei Yunxiao , Li Jing , Liu Mingming , Zhang Dongmei , Hua Ying , Liu Haiyang , Zhang Lin
Published: August 2024

Malnutrition early in life may have adverse effects on health later in life. The relationship between malnutrition and obesity parameters (body mass index [BMI] and waist circumference [WC]) and type 2 diabetes is inconsistent. This study aimed to identify the effects of famine exposure and obesity parameters on type 2 diabetes individually or in combination among middle-aged and older adults in China. Data were extracted from the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study Wave1 in 2011. The sample involved 13,065 adults aged 45 to 90. The t- or F test was employed to compare age among groups. The chi-square test was utilized to compare baseline characteristics according to the categorical WC levels/BMI levels/famine exposure and examine between-group differences in type 2 diabetes (diabetes and non-diabetes). Odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) were estimated by logistic regression models to estimate the individual and combined associations of BMI/WC levels and famine exposure with the prevalence of type 2 diabetes. In this study, 1559 (11.93%) individuals were exposed to Chinese famine during their fetal stage, 5132 (39.28%) and 4428 (33.89%) in childhood and adolescence/adulthood, respectively. Among BMI measurements, 3780 (28.93%) were overweight, and 1487 (11.38%) were obese, whereas WC measurements showed that 5408 (41.39%) were obesity. In addition, 831 (45.48%) males and 996 (54.52%) females reported type 2 diabetes. In multivariable-adjusted regression models, obesity parameters and famine exposure were independently associated with type 2 diabetes prevalence among all participants (P < .001). In the interaction analysis, there existed a trend of higher odds for prevalence of type 2 diabetes across all groups compared to the combination of no-exposed and normal BMI/WC level group (the most increase in odds, adolescence/adulthood-exposed group with central obesity in WC levels: OR 4.51 (95% CI = 3.42–5.95); adolescence/adulthood-exposed group with obesity in BMI levels: OR 5.84 (95% CI = 4.11–8.30; P for interaction <.001). The findings for females exhibited similar to the overall participants, when by gender stratification. Our results suggest famine exposure and obesity parameters have positive combined effects on type 2 diabetes in middle-aged and older adults in China.
Association between Epstein-Barr virus infection and serum positivity rate of anti-nuclear antibodies in Chongqing, China: A cross-sectional observational study
Authors: Ding Bei-Ning , Wu Yi-Lin , Zhang You-Yu , Li Yong-Guo
Published: August 2024

Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) infects over 95% of the global population and is strongly associated with various autoimmune diseases. Anti-nuclear antibodies (ANA) serve as valuable laboratory biomarkers for screening and supporting the diagnosis of various autoimmune diseases. The aim of this study was to assess the prevalence of EBV infection and its association with ANA. This retrospective study employed standard indirect immunofluorescence assay to determine ANA levels, EBV-specific immunofluorescence assay, or plasma EBV-DNA testing. Demographic data including gender and age were collected to observe variations in EBV infection status and ANA positivity rates among different populations. Incorporating 6492 hospitalized patients who underwent ANA antibody spectrum testing, it was observed that serum positivity rates gradually increased with age. The overall serum positivity rate of ANA in females (25.14%) was significantly higher than that in males (13.76%). Among hospitalized patients undergoing EBV-DNA testing, adults aged 21 to 40 years were least affected by EBV, with a positivity rate of 11.96%; however, as age increased, the positivity rate gradually increased. Among the 5225 patients undergoing EBV antibody spectrum testing, ANA-positive patients exhibited significantly higher serum positivity rates for Epstein-Barr nuclear antigen 1 immunoglobulin G, Epstein-Barr virus early antigen immunoglobulin G, Epstein-Barr virus early antigen immunoglobulin A, and Epstein-Barr virus viral capsid antigen immunoglobulin A antibodies compared to ANA-negative patients (P < .001; P < .001; P = .013; P < .001). The EBV-DNA positivity rate in ANA-positive patients was also significantly higher than in ANA-negative patients, yielding the same conclusion (P = .012). The positivity rates of ANA antibodies in patients with past EBV infection and reactivation were significantly higher than those in uninfected patients (P < .001; P = .006). The positivity rate of ANA antibodies in reactivated patients was significantly higher than that in primary infected patients and those with past infections (P < .001; P < .001). Among ANA-positive patients, the positivity rates of EBV antibody spectrum and EBV-DNA were higher compared to ANA-negative patients. The positivity rates of ANA in patients with past EBV infection and reactivation were higher than those in uninfected patients.