bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Chemical characterization, in vitro anti HSV-1 activity of the Polyphenol-enriched fractions of Cistus laurifolius L., and development of antiviral herbal lip balm
Authors: Okumuş Nurullah , Erdoğmuş Sevim Feyza , Doğan Hasan Hüseyin , Altintaş Özlem Erdal , Çelik Sefa , Duman Rüstem , Ünlü Ümmühan
Published: August 2023

The cytotoxic activities of the Cistus laurifolius extracts and their ability to inhibit cytopathic effect were evaluated by colorimetric XTT test on Vero cells. In the first experiments, crude extracts did not show antiviral activity due to high toxicity. The solid phase extraction (SPE), purification, and polyphenolic enrichment methods (PEM) were applied for EtOH, MeOH, and dH2O extracts to reduce the toxicity of the extracts and in this way, high antiviral results were obtained. Polyphenol-enriched fractions (PEF) of MeOH (SI: 431.17) and dH2O (SI : >455.37), purified with SPE, showed high antiviral effects against HSV-1. In vitro cytotoxicity for PEF of EtOH, MeOH, and dH2O from C. laurifolius was investigated on HDFa cells to develop herbal lip balm formulations. All fractions had no cytotoxic effect on human dermal fibroblast cells. Herbal lip balm formulations were also developed and evaluation tests were performed on the herbal lip balm in this study. Twenty-one different phenolic contents in the extracts were investigated in the HPLC-DAD system. The hyperoside (49.37 ± 0.53), isoquercitrin (48.05 ± 0.74), rutin (45.84 ± 1.02), epicatechin (14.83 ± 1.00), quercetin-3-O-glucopyranose (13.35 ± 0.16), catechin (12.80 ± 0.1), caffeic acid (3.15 ± 0.18), apigenin (6.30 ± 0.10) were determined as the highest level in CL-PEF/dH2O than the other fraction. The results show that the PEF extracts obtained from C. laurifolius have good anti-HSV-1 activity, and the herbal formulation with antiviral activity has a better option with minimum side effects though detailed clinical trials may be done to access the formulation for better efficacy.
Nursing attitudes and perceptions on restraint practices in Italian mental health settings
Authors: Vitale Elsa , Lupo Roberto , Conte Luana , Farì Martina , Fanton Marta , Lezzi Alessia , Calabrò Antonino , Ercolani Maurizio , Carvello Maicol , De Nunzio Giorgio
Published: August 2023

An observational, cross sectional, on-line study was carried out on nurses employed in mental health facilities in order to analyze psychiatric nursing attitudes and believes on restraint nursing approaches. 268 psychiatric nurses were enrolled in this study. The data reported that most of the participants had over six years of work experience in mental health and 80% received training on physical restraint during their nursing degree, mostly in the post-base update. Conflicting opinions with respect to physical constraints as safe tools to prevent skin lesions, and to the risks associated with this practice, were revealed. Implementing educational programs for healthcare personnel seemed imperative, focusing on equipping them with strategies to minimize the use of restraint and to effectively adapt to the anticipated transformations in contemporary psychiatry.
Psychometric development and validation of the Hospital Resilience Index
Authors: Lirk Philipp , Janjua Haroon , Rogers Michael , Flynn Stephen , Kuo Paul , Pietrobon Ricardo
Published: August 2023

Background
Throughout the past decades, the United States healthcare system has seen increased efforts to promote resilience to external or internal stressors. However, measuring outcomes remains a challenge, mainly because most indices rely on markers that need to be gathered from different data sources. An alternative would be to use readily available large-scale data. The American Hospital Association (AHA) annual survey gathers over 1,000 data points from more than 6,000 hospitals. The RAND corporation provides information on the financial health and viability of hospitals and health care systems. Our study aimed to establish and psychometrically validate a new Hospital Resilience Index.
Methods
We took the two databases as primary data sources, and defined hospital closure as the main negative outcome. We performed descriptive statistics, and regression analysis of the databases, with he main outcome of hospital closure.
Results
Our findings show that a combination of eleven variables is strongly associated with the likelihood of hospital closure. These factors mirror smaller hospital size, lack of ancillary functions, staffing structure of the hospital, size of facilities, number of surgeries performed, Medicare discharges, operating expenses, and medical school affiliation as a teaching hospital. We further classified hospitals with a low HRI (< 25) or high HRI (> 25). In this setup, we found that both hospitals with a low HRI and hospitals that would subsequently close were characterized by smaller patient census, smaller numbers of surgeries, fewer beds, a smaller staff, and a lower operating margin.
Conclusions
Together, these factors would point to a higher resilience to external stressors in larger, more expanded hospitals and healthcare systems, offering a broad range of services, and having a higher operating margin. The higher tiers of the healthcare system therefore seem to have more resilience, but the recent Covid-19 pandemic exhibited how much all tiers in the system are needed to respond to extraordinary crises such as pandemics or large natural disasters. Future research should seek to determine whether tracking the HRI over time may be a tool to identify hospitals at risk of closure.
Impact of weight loss for psychiatric symptoms in mid-stage patients with Parkinson's disease: A 4-year follow-up study
Authors: Kurihara Kanako , Fujioka Shinsuke , Mishima Takayasu , Tsuboi Yoshio
Published: August 2023

Background
Weight loss is one of non-motor symptoms frequently seen in patients with Parkinson's disease (PwPD); Weight loss in PwPD is known to be negatively associated with motor and other non-motor symptoms, and has been shown to influence the prognosis of PD. Here, we followed weight change over a 4-year period in PwPD in a single institution and investigated the relationship between weight change and patients’ motor and non-motor symptoms.
Methods
PwPD who visited our hospital from January 2018 to December 2022 were enrolled. Body weight were measured at two points in 2018 (at the start of observation, 'baseline') and 2022 (at the end of observation, 'end date'). In addition, motor symptoms, disease severity, cognitive function, and psychiatric symptoms were evaluated during the same period, and the relationship with weight loss was examined.
Results
Data of 96 PwPD were available for a 4-year period follow-up. At baseline, mean age was 65.7 ± 10.0 years, mean disease duration was 6.8 ± 4.0 years, and mean Hoehn and Yahr stage was 2.4 ± 0.7. Among them, 49 patients (51.0%) had a weight loss of ≥ 5% from baseline (weight loss group; mean loss was 6.4 ± 3.6 kg). The weight loss group was older (P = 0.045), had a lower Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) at baseline (P = 0.037), and had a significantly lower body mass index (P = 0.001) and higher Zung Self-Rating Depression Scale (SDS) (P = 0.012) at end date. There was a negative correlation (γ = -0.403, P < 0.001) between weight change and age, a positive correlation (γ = 0.318, P = 0.002) between weight change and MMSE at baseline, and a negative correlation (γ = -0.333, P = 0.001) between weight change and SDS at end date. Age-adjusted correlations showed a final negative correlation (γ = -0.309, P = 0.002) between weight change and SDS.
Conclusions
Weight loss in PwPD in mid-stage was more likely with increasing age, and a ≥ 5% weight loss was associated with worsening depression. Further research is needed regarding the significance of weight loss in PwPD.
Trial registration
The participants were retrospectively registered.
Presepsin is a more useful predictor of septic AKI and ARDS for very-old sepsis patients than for young sepsis patients in ICUs: a pilot study
Authors: Shimoyama Yuichiro , Kadono Noriko , Umegaki Osamu , Minami Toshiaki
Published: August 2023

Objective
Sepsis is a syndrome of life-threatening organ dysfunction. This study aimed to determine whether presepsin is a useful predictor of septic acute kidney injury (AKI), acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC), and shock in very-old sepsis patients aged 75 years in intensive care units (ICUs).
Results
A total of 83 adult patients diagnosed with sepsis were prospectively examined and divided into two groups: those aged 75 years and older (over 75 group) and those aged younger than 75 years (under 75 group). Presepsin values were measured after ICU admission. Inflammation-based prognostic scores were also examined. For category classification, total scores (“inflammation-presepsin scores [iPS]”) were calculated. Presepsin values, inflammation-based prognostic scores, and iPS were compared between patients with septic AKI, ARDS, DIC, or shock and those without these disorders in the over 75 and under 75 groups. Areas under the curve of presepsin for predicting septic AKI and ARDS in the over 75 group were both > 0.7, which were significantly higher than those in the under 75 group. In conclusion, presepsin is a more useful predictor of septic AKI and ARDS for very-old sepsis patients (over 75 years) than for younger sepsis patients (under 75 years).
Machine Learning Pipeline to analyze Clinical and Proteomics Data: experiences on a prostate cancer case
Authors: Tradigo Giuseppe , Vizza Patrizia , Aracri Federica , Gaspari Marco , Guzzi Pietro Hiram , Veltri Pierangelo
Published: August 2023

Proteomic-based analysis is used to identify biomarkers in blood samples and tissues. Data produced by devices such as mass spectrometry, requires platforms to identify and quantify proteins (or peptides). Clinical information can be related with mass spectrometry data to identify diseases at an early stage. Machine learning techniques can be used to support physicians and biologists for studying and classifying pathologies.
We present the application of machine learning techniques to define a pipeline aimed to study and classify protemics data enriched by means of clinical information. The pipeline allows users to relate established blood biomarkers with clinical parameters and proteomics data. The proposed pipeline entails three main phases: (i) feature selection, (ii) models training and (iii) models ensembling. We report the experience of applying such a pipeline on prostate related diseases. Models have been trained on a datasets which results from the integration of clinical and mass spectrometry based data. The pipeline receives as input data from blood analytes, tissue samples, proteomic analysis and urine biomarkers. It then learns different models for feature selection and classification.The presented pipeline has been applied on two datasets onbtained a 2 years research project which aimed to extract hidden information from mass spectrometry, serum and urine samples from hundreds of patients. We report results on analyzing prostate datasets with 163 samples, including 79 patient, and a urine dataset with 121 patients. As results pipeline allowed to identify interesting peptides in the two datasets, 6 for the first one and 2 for the second one. The best model for both prostate (AUC=0.815, F1=0.8, Specificity=0.75, Sensitivity=0.88) and urine (AUC=0.810, F1=0.824, Specificity=0.805, Sensitivity=0.814) datasets showed good predictive performances.We are confident that the pipeline can be successfully adopted in similar clinical setups.
Genes of Antibiotic Resistance in Gram-Negative Bacilli causing Urinary Tract Infections in Khartoum State: A Cross-sectional study
Authors: Mohammedkheir Manal Ismail , Gaafar Elsheikh Mahgoub , AbdAlla Eltayeb GareebAlla Eltayeb
Published: August 2023

Background
The resistance of Gram-negative bacilli against antibiotics is rapidly rising worldwide, limiting the treatment options. Gram-negative bacilli are the main cause of urinary tract infections, this study aims to determine the frequent causative organisms of UTI and the pattern of their resistance to antibiotics.
Materials and Methods
This was a cross-sectional hospital-based study conducted at El-Amal Hospital, Bahri teaching hospital, and Al-Baraha Hospital, Khartoum state from March to October 2022. Urine samples from patients suspected to have UTI were collected and patients with confirmed UTI by laboratory investigations and yielded culture growth were enrolled. Antibiotic sensitivity testing and PCR testing of for blaTEM, blaSHV, and blaCTX-M genes was done.
Results
This study included 50 patients with UTI out of 229 suspected patients (21.8%). The prominent group of patients was older than 60 years 40%, the majority were females 70%. Escherichia coli was the commonest isolated organism 50%, followed by Klebsiella oxytoca 24%, Klebsiella pneumoniae 20%, Pseudomonas aeruginosa (4%), and Citrobacter feurndii (2%). organisms showed good susceptibility to colistin (17% resistance), while resistance to the rest of the antibiotics was 77% to amikacin 97.6% to cefotaxime, 96.8% to Ceftazidime, 97.6% to Ceftriaxone, 96.8 to Cefixime, 87.6 to ciprofloxacin, 88.4% to gentamycin, 62% to imipenem, 67.6% to meropenem, 87.6% to Norfloxacin, and 95.6% to Trimethoprim. Regarding genes responsible for the resistance blaTEM was the commonest 100%, followed by blaCTX-M 94% and blaSHV 84%.
Conclusion
Escherichia coli and Klebsiella species were the commonest isolated uro-pathogens in this study and the majority were highly resistant to most of the antimicrobial agents tested. Resistance genes blaTEM, blaCTX-M and blaSHV are very common in uro-pathogens.
Establishment of in vitro pollen germination system in C4 model plant Foxtail Millet
Authors: Su Min , Wang Dan , Li Zi-Dong , Hao Jian-Hong , Dong Shuqi , Yuan Xiangyang , Li Xiaorui , Gao Lulu , Yang Guanghui , Chu Xiaoqian , Wang Jia-Gang
Published: August 2023

The pollen development and germination are critical stages for sexual reproduction in plants, this process has great potential application for improve grain yield in crops. In this study, the germination system of foxtail millet pollen was established, and it was found that culture temperature and time were the key factors for pollen germination, among which 22℃ and 30 min may be the best conditions for pollen germination, and the top of the pollen tube would expand if the culture temperature was too high. We also found that the time required for pollen germination of foxtail millet was much shorter than that of other cereals, which provided a new way for us to study the stress resistance of foxtail millet from the perspective of reproductive development. This system may provide significant guidance for the application of male sterility or cross breeding.
2017A alloy surface layer after flow burnishing with glass microspheres
Authors: Korzyńska Katarzyna , Zarski Tomasz , Zeglicki Wojciech , Zwolak Jan
Published: August 2023

This study presents a novel flow processing technique that uses glass microspheres instead of abrasives. The fundamentals of flow machining with glass microspheres, including microsphere flow burnishing (MFB) and the conditions necessary for cutting or plastic deformation of a surface to occur during MFB, are determined. Details on such conditions are lacking, and therefore, this study attempts to define these conditions. To this end, MFB was experimentally confirmed to be a burnishing process, and the effects of MFB and abrasive flow machining (AFM) on 2017A aluminum alloy were compared. Both processes achieved a surface roughness (Sa) of < 0.5 µm, while MFB yielded higher values of surface microhardness and compressive stress. The effects of basic process parameters on the MFB and AFM results (workpiece weight loss and Sa) were compared experimentally and the corresponding mathematical models were established. Utilizing these relationships, MFB parameters can be selected so as to obtain the most favorable surface layer for the expected operating conditions.
High-Fat Diet Enhances Stemness and Compromises Intestinal Permeability in A Translational Canine Intestinal Organoid Model
Authors: Nagao Itsuma , Ambrosini Yoko
Published: August 2023

Background: Emerging evidence underscores the responsiveness of the mammalian intestine to dietary cues, notably through the involvement of LGR5+ intestinal stem cells in orchestrating responses to diet-driven signals. However, the effects of high-fat diet (HFD) on these cellular dynamics and their impact on gut integrity remain insufficiently understood. Our study aims to assess the multifaceted interactions between lipotoxicity, stemness, and the intestinal epithelial barrier using a canine colonoid model. Canine models, due to their relevance in simulating human intestinal diseases, offer a unique platform to explore the molecular mechanisms underlying HFD derived intestinal dysfunction.
Results: Canine colonoids were subjected to palmitic acid (PA) exposure, a surrogate for the effects of HFD. This intervention revealed a remarkable augmentation of stemness characteristics. Furthermore, we observed a parallel reduction in transepithelial electrical resistance (TEER), indicating altered epithelium barrier integrity. While E-cadherin exhibited consistency, ZO-1 displayed a noteworthy reduction in fluorescence intensity within the PA-exposed group.
Conclusions: By employing canine intestinal organoid systems, we provide compelling insights into the impact of lipotoxicity on intestinal physiology. These findings underscore the importance of considering both stemness and epithelial integrity in comprehending the repercussions of HFDs on intestinal health. Our study contributes to a deeper understanding of the consequences of HFD on intestinal homeostasis, utilizing valuable translational in vitro models derived from dogs.
Long-term safety and efficacy of enzalutamide for men with castration-resistant prostate cancer: a multicenter, prospective DELC study
Authors: Nagahara Akira , Uemura Motohide , Sato Mototaka , Nakata Wataru , Tsujihata Masao , Takao Tetsuya , Matsumura Soichi , Nishimura Kensaku , Takada Shingo , Iwanishi Toshichika , Kobayashi Yasuyuki , Ishizuya Yu , Takada Tsuyoshi , Okada Koichi , Inoue Hitoshi , Kato Taigo , Hatano Koji , Kawashima Atsunari , Ujike Takeshi , Fujita Kazutoshi , Nonomura Norio
Published: August 2023

Background
Alternative antiandrogen therapy (AAT) has been widely used as a first-line treatment for castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC), and it may affect treatment outcome of subsequent androgen receptor axis-targeted agents. We conducted a prospective observational study to evaluate the efficacy of enzalutamide in patients with CRPC who underwent prior combined androgen blockade with bicalutamide and then AAT with flutamide.
Methods
This prospective observational study enrolled 163 Japanese patients with CRPC who underwent AAT with flutamide following failure of initial combined androgen blockade with bicalutamide in multiple institutions between January 2016 and March 2019. Primary endpoint was overall survival. Administration of enzalutamide was started at 160 mg orally once daily in all patients.
Results
Median follow-up period was 25.8 months, the rate of decline of prostate-specific antigen by 50% or more was 72.2%, and median overall survival was 42.05 months. Multivariate analysis revealed that higher pretreatment serum prostate-specific antigen (≥ 11.3 ng/mL; p = 0.004), higher neuron-specific enolase (p = 0.014), and higher serum interleukin-6 (≥ 2.15 pg/mL; p = 0.004) levels were independent risk factors for overall survival. Fatigue (30.0%), constipation (19.6%), and appetite loss (17.8%) were the most common clinically relevant adverse events. The enzalutamide dose was not reduced in any patient under the age of 70, but adherence was decreased in those over 70.
Conclusions
Although the enzalutamide response period appeared shorter due to prior AAT, overall survival was deemed equivalent compared to previous reports. Neuron-specific enolase and interleukin-6 levels in serum were suggested as prognostic factors with potential clinical utility.
Anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties of Polyphyllin VI revealed by network pharmacology and RNA sequencing
Authors: Zhang Zhenglang , Wang Tingting , Luo Zhenhui , Zaib Muhammad Haris , Yi Mengqin , Zeng Hekun , Li Peiyang , Tang Dan , Verkhratsky Alexei , Nie Hong
Published: August 2023

Inflammatory pain, sustained by a complex network of inflammatory mediators, is a severe and persistent illness affecting a large proportion of the general population. Based on our earlier research showing that Polyphyllin VI (PPVI) alleviates pain by reducing inflammation in mice we proceed to identify potential anti-inflammatory mechanisms of PPVI. Network pharmacology and RNA-Seq identified the contribution of the MAPK signaling pathway to inflammatory pain. In the in vitro LPS/ATP-induced RAW264.7 cell model pretreatment with PPVI for 24h inhibited the release of IL-6、IL-8, down-regulated expression of the P2X7 receptor(P2X7R), and decreased phosphorylation of p38 and ERK1/2 components of the MAPK pathway. Similarly, PPVI decreased expression of IL-6 and IL-8 was observed in the serum of the inflammatory pain mice model and reduced phosphorylation of p38 and ERK1/2 in the dorsal root ganglia. These results suggest that PPⅥ reduces phosphorylated p38 and ERK1/2 by regulating P2X7R, thus inhibiting the release of IL-6 and IL-8 to alleviate inflammatory pain.
The effect of different antifouling paints on biocide release rate and mechanical properties
Authors: Jalaie Adel , Afshaar Abdolah , Mousavi Seyed Borhan , Heidari Mohammad
Published: August 2023

This study comprehensively assesses the release rate of biocides, corrosion effects related to antifouling, and the physical properties of different paint types. Tests were conducted to measure thickness, viscosity, hardness, bending, adhesion, gloss, impact resistance, abrasion resistance, scratch resistance, polarization, and salt spray. The paints evaluated include resin-based, acrylic-based, epoxy-based, and vinyl-based formulations. The study investigates the influence of biocide content, biocide particle size, and immersion time on the release rate using a lab-scale setup. Results showed that acrylic-based paints had a higher biocide release rate due to faster hydrolysis, while smaller biocide particle sizes led to higher release rates in resin-based paints. Optimal total biocide contents were determined as 30% for acrylic-based, 60% for epoxy-based, and 50% for vinyl-based paints. Antifouling corrosion analysis demonstrated that the sample with the optimal release rate effectively prevents algae growth and fouling. Acrylic-based paint with 30 wt% biocide content exhibited superior adhesion with a dolly separation force of 4.12 MPa. Evaluating the impact of synthesized polyaniline on 30 wt% epoxy-based paint, a sample coated with 10 wt% polyaniline represented a low corrosion rate of 0.35 µm/year and a high impedance value of approximately 37000 Ohm.cm-2.
Quantitative evaluation of pediatric umbilical loop stomas: Two decades of experience from a single institution
Authors: Ishii Daisuke , Kumata Yuka , Ishii Seiya , Motoki Keita , Miyagi Hisayuki
Published: August 2023

Purpose
Since pediatric stomas are often temporary, their creation, management, and closure should be simple, with minimal complications and excellent cosmetic results. We began employing umbilical stomas in 2000. This study aimed to characterize the ingenuity and utility of umbilical stomas and provide a quantitative evaluation of their cosmetic outcomes.
Methods
We examined cases of stoma construction and closure surgery performed in our department from January 2000 to December 2022. The umbilical and non-umbilical stoma groups included 54 and 42 cases, respectively, and the findings for both groups were compared and analyzed.
Results
The two groups showed no significant differences in the incidence of complications. The Manchester Scar Scale score for the umbilical stoma group (8.42±1.85) was significantly better than that for the non-umbilical stoma group (16.31±2.96; P<0.01). Likewise, in Patient and Observer Scar Assessment Scale assessments, the umbilical stoma group showed significantly better scores in both the observer scale (9.48±2.50 vs. 21.78±7.26; P<0.01) and the patient scale (10.5±1.39 vs. 22.40±7.35; P<0.01).
Conclusions
Umbilical stomas are easy to manage and yield an inconspicuous closure incision with excellent cosmetic outcomes. Although patient selection is important, pediatric umbilical stomas are a valuable option that can be actively employed.
Investigation in Surface Wave Propagation on Reconfigurable Porous Plane
Authors: Chu Zhiyuan , Tong Kin-Fai , Wong Kai-Kit , Chae Chan-Byoung , Zhang Yangyang
Published: August 2023

This paper introduces a novel reconfigurable technique for partitioning surface waves by utilizing a T-shaped structure and pathways established through the introduction of fluid metal or metal pins into evenly spaced cylindrical cavities within a porous surface wave platform. Notably, the co-printing of metal and dielectric materials via 3D printing is employed, resulting in an expedited fabrication process. Extensive 3D electromagnetic simulations and experimental investigations validate the proposed approach's efficacy in achieving surface wave division while minimizing interference. The study encompasses an exploration of diverse power distribution ratios achievable within the distributed surface waves. Critical physical parameters of the T-junction are comprehensively examined, including partition depth, junction geometry, output port symmetry, and asymmetry. Additionally, the research delves into the frequency-dependent behaviours of asymmetric T-junctions and pathways. These findings establish the groundwork for adaptable architectures, facilitating concurrent communication among multiple devices within a unified surface wave communication network. This innovation holds potential to enhance various applications through improved communication capabilities.
Diagnostic decisions of specialist optometrists exposed to ambiguous deep-learning outputs
Authors: Carmichael Josie , Costanza Enrico , Blandford Ann , Struyven Robbert , Keane Pearse , Balaskas Konstantinos
Published: August 2023

Artificial intelligence (AI) has great potential in ophthalmology; however, there has been limited clinical integration. Our study investigated how ambiguous outputs from an AI diagnostic support system (AI-DSS) affected diagnostic responses from optometrists when assessing cases of suspected retinal disease. Thirty optometrists at Moorfields Eye Hospital (15 more experienced, 15 less) assessed 30 clinical cases in counterbalanced order. For ten cases, participants saw an optical coherence tomography (OCT) scan, basic clinical information and a retinal photograph (‘no AI’). For another ten, they were also given the AI-generated OCT-based probabilistic diagnosis (‘AI diagnosis’); and for ten, both AI-diagnosis and an AI-generated OCT segmentation (‘AI diagnosis + segmentation’) were provided. Cases were matched across the three types of presentation and were purposely selected to include 40% ambiguous and 20% incorrect AI outputs. Optometrist diagnostic agreement with the predefined reference standard was lowest for the ‘AI diagnosis + segmentation’ presentation (204/300, 68%) compared to both ‘AI diagnosis’ (224/300, 75% p = 0·010), and ‘no Al’ (242/300, 81%, p = < 0·001). Agreement in the ‘AI diagnosis’ presentation was lower (p = 0·049) than in the ‘no AI’. Agreement with AI diagnosis consistent with the reference standard decreased (174/210 vs 199/210, p = 0·003), but participants trusted the AI more (p = 0·029) when segmentations were displayed. There was no significant effect of practitioner experience on diagnostic responses (p = 0·24). More experienced participants were more confident (p = 0·012) and trusted the AI less (p = 0·038). Our findings also highlighted issues around reference standard definition.
Surgical outcomes and prognosis of intracorporeal versus extracorporeal esophagojejunostomy after laparoscopic total gastrectomy for gastric cancer: a propensity score-matching study
Authors: Seo Ji Won , Park Ki Bum , Kim Eun Young , Jun Kyong-Hwa , Chin Hyung Min
Published: August 2023

Background: This study compared the surgical outcomes and long-term prognoses of intracorporeal and extracorporeal esophagojejunostomy after laparoscopic total gastrectomy (LTG) for gastric cancer patients.
Methods: In total 228 clinical stage I gastric cancer patients undergoing LTG were enrolled from January 2012 and December 2022. Each case in the totally laparoscopic total gastrectomy (TLTG) group was 1:1 propensity score-matched to control cases in the laparoscopy-assisted total gastrectomy (LATG) group. In total, 95 and 93 LATG and TLTG patients were included after propensity score matching (PSM). Clinicopathological features, surgical outcomes, and survival variables were compared, and risk factors for postoperative complications were analyzed.
Results: Patient characteristics were well balanced between the LATG and TLTG groups after PSM. The TLTG group showed less blood loss, decreased frequency of analgesic use, and shorter duration of analgesic use. The TLTG group had significantly lower rates of intestinal obstruction and surgical site infection. Larger tumor size and advanced pTNM stage were independent risk factors for postoperative complications. There was no significant difference in overall survival (OS).
Conclusions: Compared with LATG, TLTG was associated with better surgical outcomes and fewer postoperative surgical complications in gastric cancer patients although there was no significant difference in OS.
Significance of wetlands for the conservation of avifauna in the central zone of Tigray, northern Ethiopia
Authors: Arefayne Kalayu Mesfin , Tesfahunegn Wldemariam , Assefa Alembrhan
Published: August 2023

This study was conducted to investigate the significance of wetlands for bird conservation from June 2022 to May 2023 in the central zone of Tigray, northern Ethiopia. The point count method was used to study the bird assemblage structure and diversity in the study sites. During data analysis, the Shannon–Weaver diversity index was employed using PAST software. A total of 4,324 individual birds belonging to 125 species, 14 orders and 42 families were identified. The order Passeriformes was recorded with the highest number of species (70, 56%), followed by the order Columbiformes (9, 7.2%). Overall bird species diversity and abundance were higher during the wet season at all studied sites. The highest (100, 42%) and lowest (66, 27%) numbers of bird species were recorded in May Abakat and May Shingurti, respectively. The bird community similarity of the studied habitats was SI = 0.492, which is < 50%, indicating that there is low similarity of bird species among the three wetlands. There was no significant difference (p > 0.05) in the abundance of bird species between the wet and dry seasons except in the May Shingurti wetland. Generally, the abundance of bird species among the three selected wetlands showed highly significant variation (p < 0.05). Solid waste disposal, erosion, agricultural expansion, urbanization (human settlement), grazing by domestic stock, military camping, Eucalyptus cultivation and others were identified as wetland threats. Finally, community-based conservation initiatives should be developed and implemented to diminish the threats and safeguard the studied wetlands.
Replication Study Identified EFEMP1 Association with Varicose Vein Predisposition among Indians
Authors: Mehra Rohit , Patra Vikram , Dhillan Rishi , Sharma Anuka , Kashyap Sonal , Rastogi Garima , Gupta Love , Singh Reena , Chopra Chirag , Sharma Varun
Published: August 2023

Background:
Varicose veins are chronic condition that affects the lower extremities of the body. Several factors such as age, gender, weight, height, prolonged sitting or standing time are associated with this trait. Recently, genome wide studies have identifying genetic biomarkers that are associated with varicose veins in different ethnic groups. Such genetic studies are lacking in South Asians specifically in Indians where prevalence of varicose veins is high and it is important to replicate these variants in stated population. The aim of study is to replicate the association of genetic variants associated with varicose veins which were found to be associated in the other ethnic groups.
Methodology:
The studied cohort is of Indian population comprising of unrelated 104 varicose veins cases and 448 non-VV controls. The samples were genotyped using the Illumina Global Screening Array. Using the genomic data from UK BioBank and 23andMe studied cohorts; eight genetic variants were selected to replicate in our dataset. Allelic association was performed to identify the effective allele and risk was estimated using odds ratio and p value as level of significance. Multifactor Dimensionality Reduction was used to estimate the cumulative effect of variants in Indians.
Result:
Variant rs3791679 of EFEMP1 was found to be associated with varicose veins in Indians. After observing the association of EFEMP1 with varicose veins, we further ensued to identify all genetic variants within EFEMP1 to uncover the additional variants associated with this trait. Interestingly, we identified six new variants of EFEM1 gene that have shown association. Moreover, the cumulative effect of all associated variations was estimated and the risk was 2.7 times higher in cases than controls whereas independently their effect is ranging from 0.37–1.58.
Conclusion:
In this study, EFEMP1 was identified as a potential gene related with the risk of varicose veins in Indians. Present study also highlights that evaluating the maximum number of variants of a gene rather than focusing solely on replicating single variations offers a more comprehensive and nuanced understanding of the genetic factors contributing to a complex trait like varicose veins.
Gibbons overcome the face inversion effect through exceptional holistic perceptionion
Authors: Zhang Yigui , Chen Lixin , Hong Litong , Chen Yuanyuan , Li Zhongqiu
Published: August 2023

Extensive research has consistently underscored the significance of visual information, particularly facial cues, in primates’ establishment and maintenance of social relationships within their communities. This study aims to delve into the cross-species face recognition capacities of gibbons through exposure to a diverse array of two-dimensional face images, encompassing upright and non-upright faces, as well as images featuring incomplete facial features and contours. Employing the well-established go/no-go paradigm, gibbons were tasked with choosing between two concurrently presented face images. The findings shed light on gibbons’ extraordinary cross-species face recognition capacities, underpinned by their remarkable holistic perception capacities. Crucially, their holistic perception remains steadfast even in the face of incomplete features, truncated contours, and non-upright faces, empowering them to surmount the challenges posed by the face inversion effect.
Preventive Effects of Chinese Xinjiang Naturally Fermented Yogurt Separated from Lactobacillus rhamnosus AFY02 on Acute Gouty Arthritis in Mice
Authors: Wang Mengwei , Fan Yang , Song Jing , Liu Yanqing , He Mengping , Zhao Xin , Wu Wenzhong
Published: August 2023

Introduction This research aims to investigate the mechanism of action of Lactobacillus rhamnosus AFY02 (LR-AFY02) in mice with acute gouty arthritis. Using sodium urate, we created a mouse model of acute gouty arthritis.
Methods We then examined the degree of foot swelling, pain threshold, blood biochemical indicators, histopathological changes, and mRNA expression changes to determine the effectiveness and mechanism of LR-AFY02 in preventing acute gouty arthritis in mice.
Results The outcomes of the animal experiment demonstrated that LR-AFY02 can decrease the severity of mouse foot edema and raise pain threshold. In the ankle joint tissues of mice with acute arthritis, LR-AFY02 can increase the enzyme activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and the level of glutathione (GSH), while lowering the enzyme activity of myeloperoxidase (MPO) and the level of malondialdehyde (MDA). Interleukin-6 (IL-6), IL-10, IL-1β, and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) levels in the blood of mice with acute arthritis are also decreased by LR-AFY02. Histopathological findings demonstrated that LR-AFY02 reduced tissue damage in the mouse foot and ankle joints. The findings of the qPCR experiment showed that LR-AFY02 may suppress the mRNA expression of extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 (ERK1/2), cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), IL-6, interferon gamma (IFN-γ), and TNF- in the tissues of the ankle joints of mice with acute arthritis. Additionally, LR-AFY02 has the ability to increase the expression of catalase (CAT), manganese superoxide dismutase (Mn-SOD), and copper/zinc superoxide dismutase (Cu/Zn-SOD).
Conclusion As a result, it is clear that Lactobacillus rhamnosus AFY02 is more effective than glucosamine sulfate at preventing acute gouty arthritis. It is a strain with potential as a probiotic.
Multiplicity of nontrivial solutions for a class of fractional Kirchhoff equations
Authors: Shao Liuyang , Chen Haibo , Pang Yicheng , Wang Yingmin
Published: August 2023

In this article, we study a class of fractional Kirchhoff with a superlinear nonlinearity: are positive numbers satisfying solution. By applying the variational method, we obtain the existence of multiple solutions. Furthermore, it is worth mentioning that the ground state solution has also been obtained.
2010 Mathematics Subject Classification. 35B09; 35J20
Hierarchical models for West Nile virus risk mapping in Connecticut, USA
Authors: McMillan Joseph R. , Chaves Luis Fernando , Armstrong Philip M.
Published: August 2023

Background: Predicting risk of West Nile virus (WNV) to humans in spaces without mosquito surveillance data is a key limitation of many WNV surveillance programs. To address this knowledge gap, we analyzed 20 years (2001 – 2020) of statewide, point-level mosquito and WNV surveillance data from Connecticut (CT), USA, using boosted regression trees (BRT) and generalized linear models (GLMs) to determine the most influential climate variables, land cover classes, and seasonality factors (such as Month of collection) associated with Culex pipiens abundance and WNV presence/absence in tested mosquito pools.
Methods: Candidate Cx. pipiens collection models were assessed based on explained deviance and root mean square error then optimized using a backward selection process. We then used predicted Cx. pipiens abundance in models of WNV presence/absence to predict WNV detection probabilities throughout CT. We validated these WNV predictions by testing the association between predicted WNV detection probabilities in mosquitoes and observed WNV incidence in mosquitoes from 2021 – 2022 and in humans from 2001 – 2022 using binomial-error generalized linear mixed effects models.
Results: Predicted mosquito WNV detection probabilities in unsampled spaces were significantly associated with the odds of a mosquito pool testing positive as well as a human case occurring within the geopolitical boundaries of a town.
Conclusion: This methodology has broad utility in the US and abroad to inform the public of risk of WNV quickly and easily in mosquitoes using only a few online and easily accessible data sources.
Modular microscopy (ModMicro) solution for volumetric epifluorescence microscopic imaging
Authors: Archibald Robert , Bishop Harriet , Gibson Graham , Kallepalli Akhil
Published: August 2023

Fluorescence microscopy is a well-known technique for studying biological samples. However, on a global scale, microscopy techniques (beyond brightfield imaging) are inaccessible in some countries. Additionally, proprietary microscopy hardware is not modular and cannot be adapted for different architectures. In this research, we demonstrate a modular epifluorescence microscopy system and image analysis technique developed with the motivation of achieving high-resolution imaging using low-cost modular hardware. We compare the performance of the (1000 GBP) OpenFlexure-inspired epifluorescence ModMicro system to a proprietary epifluorescence microscope. With the epifluorescence ModMicro system, we imaged 'datacubes' of 0.54 x 0.40 x 0.005 mm (in 100 steps of 50 nm each) size. The image data is enhanced with a novel sharpening algorithm. Combined (light sources, microscope hardware and image sharpness enhancement algorithm), a complete system for epifluorescence microscopy that is globally accessible and cost-effective is presented.
Lnc-HIBADH-4 regulates autophagy-lysosome pathway in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis by targeting Cathepsin D
Authors: Huang Jingxuan , Yu Yujiao , Pang Dejiang , Li Chunyu , Wei Qianqian , Cheng Yangfan , Cui Yiyuan , Ou Ruwei , Shang Huifang
Published: August 2023

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is the most prevalent and lethal class of severe motor neuron diseases (MND) with no efficacious treatment. The pathogenic mechanisms underlying ALS remain unclear. Nearly 90% of patients exhibit sporadic onset (sALS). Therefore, elucidating the pathophysiology of ALS is imperative. Long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) is a large class of non-coding RNAs that regulate transcription, translation and post-translational processes. LncRNAs contribute to the pathogenesis of diverse neurodegenerative disorders and hold promise as targets for interference in the realm of neurodegeneration. However, the mechanisms of which lncRNAs are involved in ALS have not been thoroughly investigated. We identified and validated a downregulated lncRNA, lnc-HIBADH-4, in ALS which correlated with disease severity and overall survival. Lnc-HIBADH-4 acted as a "molecular sponge" regulating lysosomal function through the lnc-HIBADH-4/miR-326/CTSD pathway, thereby impacting autophagy-lysosome dynamics and the levels of cell proliferation and apoptosis. Therefore, this study discovered and revealed the role of lnc-HIBADH-4 in the pathogenesis of ALS. With further research, lnc-HIBADH-4 is expected to provide a new biomarker in the diagnosis and treatment of ALS.
Unusual neurological symptoms as the first manifestations of celiac disease: a case report
Authors: Abbas Mona , Yasmeeneh Abeer Maamoun , Moumen Marwa , Alahmad Ali
Published: August 2023

Background: we report a patient with atypical presentation of celiac disease, she presented with neurologic manifestations without gastrointestinal symptoms.
Case presentation: a 32-year-old woman witha weakness of the lower extremities, gait imbalance, and tremor in the upper extremities progressing during the last two months with headache, she also complaints of amenorrhea five years ago with no apparent reason. She did not have gastrointestinal symptoms.
Her investigations showed that she had celiac disease and the neurological and endocrine manifestations improved with gluten-free diet within several weeks.
Conclusion: We should investigate for CD in patients with neurologic and endocrine manifestations and vitamins deficiency even if there are no gastrointestinal symptoms.
The Effect of Calcination Temperature and Particle Size on the Layered LiNi0.91Co0.06Mn0.03O2 for Lithium-ion Battery via Spray Drying Method
Authors: Park Hye-Jin , Sim Seong-Ju , Jin Bong-Soo , Kim Hyun-Soo
Published: August 2023

Ni-rich cathodes are one of the promising candidates for high-energy lithium-ion battery applications. Cost-effective production of Lithium-ion battery (LIB) cathode materials is significant to the electric vehicle (EV) industry. Various synthetic routes have already been established to fabricate Ni-rich LiNixCoyMnzO2 (NCM, x+y+z=1) cathodes with uniform particle size distribution and high density. However, there is a great need for new production systems due to the instability of long production cycles, and environmental issues. For continuous production of high-purity Ni-rich cathode materials, we synthesized the Ni0.91Co0.06Mn0.03CO3 precursor material by a simple spray-drying method using carbonate as a raw material. This material was calcined with LiOH·H2O (5 % excess) at 480 °C for 5 h and then sintered at a different calcining temperature for 15 h under an oxygen atmosphere to complete the cathode material preparation. We have identified the optimum calcining temperature range (at 680-950 ℃) for the Ni-rich cathode LiNi0.91Co0.06Mn0.03O2 (NCM91). As a result, NCM91 cathode material powders were obtained successfully. Furthermore, the obtained NCM91 cathode active material powders were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), field emission scanning electron microscope (FE-SEM) and energy dispersive spectrometer (EDS) study. The NCM91 calcined at 710 ℃ has very good electrochemical performance, having a discharge capacity of 190.63 mA h g-1 at the 1st cycle (0.1 C) and good capacity retention of 66.70 % even after 80 cycles.
Benefit of Structural Access Panels (SAP) for Post-Earthquake Structural Health Monitoring
Authors: Luo Zheng , MacRae Gregory , Xue Jianyang , Pettinga Didier
Published: August 2023

This paper develops a method to quantify the benefit of using structural access panels (SAPs) placed in internal partition walls (IPWs) or ceilings near the dissipative elements of structures for post-earthquake structural health monitoring (SHM) without damaging the building non-skeletal elements (NSEs). The benefit of SAPS is considered for different levels of shaking considering the possibility of (i) no likely structural damage, (ii) likely building irreparability, or (iii) building NSE damage. The methodology is developed for shaking intensity scenarios with annual shaking probabilities of exceedance ranging from 1/25 to 1/10,000. Structural demands for different scenarios are initially obtained using time history analysis. The number of scenarios was increased by additionally generated demands assuming lognormal distributions of response. Monte-Carlo analysis was used to assess the likelihood of reaching particular decision states, considering uncertainty associated with achieving these states. Probabilistic (time-based) benefits of using SAPs are also considered. Additionally, buildings with both conventional IPWs and low-damage IPWs are considered. Finally, the methodology is applied to a realistic 6 storey eccentrically braced frame (EBF) structure. In the study, the scenario-based analysis indicated that the SAPs were not effective during very small earthquake events where the post-earthquake inspection will not be triggered, or during very large events where the building is externally observed to be irreparable. Furthermore, if the NSEs equipped with SAPs sustain significant damage, SAPs were not needed for inspection. As a result, the SAPs were more beneficial when installed in low-damage NSEs, as compared to conventional NSEs, especially during moderate to high shaking levels. For the casestudy building considered, the probabilistic loss study indicates the break-even time for SAPs to be economical, considering initial installation costs, and inspection savings related to direct damage and downtime losses, was less than 2 years. The benefit-to-cost ratio of SAPs for rapid and reliable post-earthquake inspection was up to 26 over the expected building life of 50 years.