bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of Milrinone on Neonates after Patent Ductus Arteriosus Ligation: A Retrospective Nationwide Database Study
Authors: Kitaoka Hiroki , Konishi Takaaki , Shitara Yoshihiko , Ito Atsushi , Kashima Kohei , Fujita Asahi , Matsui Hiroki , Kato Motohiro , Takahashi Naoto , Yasunaga Hideo
Published: October 2023

Introduction: Milrinone is administered after patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) ligation to prevent and treat postoperative hemodynamic instability (i.e., postligation cardiac syndrome). We aimed to explore the effectiveness of milrinone on in-hospital outcomes in infants who underwent PDA ligation using a nationwide inpatient database in Japan. Methods: Using the Japanese Diagnosis Procedure Combination database, we identified patients who received milrinone after PDA ligation (n = 428) in neonatal intensive care units between July 2010 and March 2021 and those who did not (n = 3,392). We conducted a 1:4 propensity score-matched analysis with adjustment for background characteristics (e.g., gestational age, birth weight, comorbidities, preoperative treatments, and hospital background) to compare morbidities (bronchopulmonary dysplasia, intraventricular hemorrhage, necrotizing enterocolitis, and retinopathy of prematurity), mortality, total hospitalization costs, and other outcomes. For sensitivity analysis, we performed an overlap propensity score-weighted analysis. Results: In-hospital morbidity, bronchopulmonary dysplasia, intraventricular hemorrhage, and necrotizing enterocolitis occurred in 58%, 48%, 9.5%, and 7.1% of patients, respectively; the in-hospital mortality was 5.4%. After 1:4 propensity score matching, no significant difference was observed regarding mortality (7.1 vs. 5.7%), in-hospital morbidity (55 vs. 50%), bronchopulmonary dysplasia (44 vs. 41%), intraventricular hemorrhage (7.8 vs. 9.1%), necrotizing enterocolitis (8.5 vs. 8.9%), retinopathy of prematurity (21 vs. 22%), or total hospitalization costs (median: approximately 86,000 vs. 82,000 US dollars) between milrinone users (n = 425) and nonusers (n = 1,698). Sensitivity analyses yielded consistent results. Conclusions: Milrinone use after PDA ligation was not associated with improved in-hospital outcomes, such as mortality and morbidity.
Modulation of Neuroinflammation: Advances in Roles and Mechanisms of the IL-33/ST2 Axis Involved in Ischemic Stroke
Authors: Guo Shuang , Qian Chengli , Li Wenfeng , Zeng Zhikun , Cai Junlong , Luo Yi
Published: October 2023

Interleukin (IL)-33 was initially recognized as a constituent of the IL-1 cytokine family in 2005. It exerts pleiotropic effects by regulating immune responses via its binding to the receptor ST2 (IL-33R). The IL-33/ST2 pathway has been linked to several inflammatory disorders. In human and rodents, the broad expression of IL-33 in spinal cord tissues and brain indicates its central nervous system-specific functions. Growing evidence supports the protective effects of the IL-33/ST2 pathway in ischemic stroke, along with a better understanding of the underlying mechanisms. IL-33 plays a crucial role in the regulation of the release of inflammatory molecules from glial cells in response to neuropathological lesions. Moreover, IL-33/ST2-mediated neuroprotection following cerebral ischemia may be linked to T-cell function, specifically regulatory T cells. Soluble ST2 (sST2) acts as a decoy receptor in the IL-33/ST2 axis, blocking IL-33 signaling through the membrane ST2 receptor. sST2 has also been identified as a potential inflammatory biomarker of ischemic stroke. Targeting sST2 specifically to eliminate its inhibition of the protective IL-33/ST2 pathway in ischemic brain tissues is a promising approach for the treatment of ischemic stroke.
Onset Time and Characteristics of Postprocedural Bleeding after Endoscopic Resection of Colorectal Lesions: A Multicenter Retrospective Study
Authors: Xiao Qiyun , Eckardt Maximilian , Mohamed Awsan , Ernst Helmut , Behrens Alexander , Homann Nils , Hielscher Thomas , Kähler Georg , Ebert Matthias , Belle Sebastian , Zhan Tianzuo
Published: October 2023

Introduction: Postprocedural bleeding is a major adverse event after endoscopic resection of colorectal lesions, but the optimal surveillance time after endoscopy is unclear. In this study, we determined onset time and characteristics of postprocedural bleeding events. Methods: We retrospectively screened patients who underwent endoscopic resection of colorectal lesions at three German hospitals between 2010 and 2019 for postprocedural bleeding events using billing codes. Only patients who required re-endoscopy were included for analysis. For identified patients, we collected demographic data, clinical courses, characteristics of colorectal lesions, and procedure-related variables. Factors associated with late-onset bleeding were determined by univariate and multivariate logistic regression analysis. Results: From a total of 6,820 patients with eligible billing codes, we identified 113 cases with postprocedural bleeding after endoscopic mucosal (61.9%) or snare resection (38.1%) that required re-endoscopy. The median size of the culprit lesion was 20 mm (interquartile range 14–30 mm). The median onset time of postprocedural bleeding was day 3 (interquartile range: 1–6.5 days), with 48.7% of events occurring within 48 h. Multivariate logistic regression analysis demonstrates that a continued intake of antiplatelet drugs (OR: 3.98, 95% CI: 0.89–10.12, p = 0.025) and a flat morphology of the colorectal lesion (OR: 2.98, 95% CI: 1.08–8.01, p = 0.031) were associated with an increased risk for late postprocedural bleeding (>48 h), whereas intraprocedural bleeding was associated with a decreased risk (OR: 0.12, 95% CI: 0.04–0.50, p = 0.001). Conclusion: Significant postprocedural bleeding can occur up to 18 days after endoscopic resection of colorectal lesions, but was predominantly observed within 48 h. Continued intake of antiplatelet drugs and a flat polyp morphology are associated with risk for late postprocedural bleeding.
Effect of Computerized Training Programs for Attention and Perception for Patients with Hearing Aids
Authors: Basaran Mustafa Mert , Arslan Hande , Kutlu Funda
Published: October 2023

Introduction: Sensorineural hearing loss is a common problem, especially among geriatric patients, and it requires hearing aids. Unfortunately, most geriatric patients are hesitant to use hearing aids. The purpose of this study was to investigate whether computerized training therapies increase the attention and perception of patients who have been given hearing aids using psychophysiological tests and wave P300 records. Methods: One hundred patients (40 women and 60 men) who used hearing aids were included in our study. Sixty patients (30 women and 30 men) received computerized training therapies with hearing aids. After the psychophysiological tests, the study group was divided into three groups according to the role given to patients. Passive training was given in group 1; interactive training was given in group 2; and group 3 was active, questioning training. Measurements of P300 wave latencies, stimuli-P300 peak, and baseline-P300 peak were performed before and after training. The control group consisted of 40 patients who did not receive training and were treated with hearing aids only. Results: We found a significant difference between the pre- and post-training measures of the P300 wave (p < 0.001). Pre-training measurements of P300 waves were recorded for 12% in group 1 and 9.1% in groups 2 and 3 (p = 0.24). Post-training measurements of the P300 wave records were 80% in group 1 and 72.7% in groups 2 and 3 (p = 0.22). Conclusion: Attention and perception can be measured with the P300 wave. All computer-supported training programs showed an increase of the P300 wave, suggesting that attention and perception of patients with hearing loss can be increased with computer-supported training programs provided with hearing aids.
Association between Triglyceride-Glucose Index and 1-Year Recurrent Stroke after Acute Ischemic Stroke: Results from the Xi’an Stroke Registry Study of China
Authors: Guo Weiyan , Liu Zhongzhong , Liu Pei , Lu Qingli , Chang Qiaoqiao , Zhang Mi , Huo Yan , Lin Xuemei , Peng Linna , Liu Tong , Yan Yinfang , Lei Zhen , Wang Yuanji , Huang Congli , Zhang Dandan , Wang Fang , Wu Songdi
Published: October 2023

Introduction: The triglyceride-glucose (TyG) index is reported to be related to poor functional outcomes and all-cause mortality post-stroke. However, the association between TyG index and recurrent stroke after acute ischemic stroke (AIS) has not been well described. We aimed to identify whether the TyG index was associated with 1-year recurrent stroke after AIS. Methods: Baseline patient information was collected at admission, and the TyG index was calculated. Recurrent stroke events were followed up at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months after diagnosis. We then examined the association between the TyG index and risk of 1-year recurrent stroke using multivariable Cox regression models and restricted cubic spline analyses. Results: Among 2,288 participants, the mean TyG index was 8.8 ± 0.7. Those in the fourth quartile (Q4) demonstrated higher recurrent stroke risk than those in Q1 (adjusted hazard ratio [HR] = 1.63; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.98–2.72; p = 0.059). Subgroup analysis revealed a sex-specific association between TyG index and recurrent stroke (p for interaction = 0.022). Additionally, restricted cubic splines analyses showed a nonlinear association between the TyG index and 1-year recurrent stroke. In females, patients in the Q4 had a 2.95-fold increased recurrent stroke risk than did patients in the Q1 (adjusted HR = 2.95; 95% CI: 1.09–7.94; p = 0.032); the risk increased when the TyG index was >8.73. However, no significant correlation was observed in males. Conclusion: A nonlinear association was found between the TyG index and 1-year recurrent stroke risk. Subsequently, a high TyG index could predict an increased 1-year recurrent stroke risk in female AIS patients.
Differing Definitions of First-Ever Stroke Influence Incidence Estimates More than Trends: A Study Using Linked Administrative Data
Authors: Youens David , Katzenellenbogen Judith , Srinivasa Ragavan Rathina , Sodhi-Berry Nita , Carson Jennie , Zemedikun Dawit , Thrift Amanda G. , Feigin Valery , Nedkoff Lee
Published: October 2023

Introduction: Researchers apply varying definitions when measuring stroke incidence using administrative data. We aimed to investigate the sensitivity of incidence estimates to varying definitions of stroke and lookback periods and to provide updated incidence rates and trends for Western Australia (WA). Methods: We used linked state-wide hospital and death data from 1985 to 2017 to identify incident strokes from 2005 to 2017. A standard definition was applied which included strokes coded as the principal hospital diagnosis or the underlying cause of death, with a 10-year lookback used to clear prevalent cases. Alternative definitions were compared against the standard definition by percentage difference in case numbers. Age-standardised incidence rates were calculated, and age- and sex-adjusted Poisson regression models were used to estimate incidence trends. Results: The standard definition with a 10-year lookback period captured 31,274 incident strokes. Capture increased by 19.3% when including secondary diagnoses, 4.1% when including nontraumatic subdural and extradural haemorrhage, and 8.1% when including associated causes of death. Excluding death records reduced capture by 11.1%. A 20-year lookback reduced over-ascertainment by 2.0%, and a 1-year lookback increased capture by 13.3%. Incidence declined 0.6% annually (95% confidence interval −0.9, −0.3). Annual reductions were similar for most definitions except when death records were excluded (−0.1%, CI: −0.4, 0.2) and with the shortest lookback periods (greatest annual reduction). Conclusion: Stroke incidence has declined in WA. Differing methods of identifying stroke influence estimates of incidence to a greater extent than estimates of trends. Reductions in stroke incidence over time are primarily driven by declines in fatal strokes.
Genotypic and Phenotypic Characteristics of Co-Trimoxazole-Induced Cutaneous Adverse Reactions
Authors: Iamsumang Wimolsiri , Chanprapaph Kumutnart , Sukasem Chonlaphat , Satapornpong Patompong , Thadanipon Kunlawat , Suchonwanit Poonkiat , Jantararoungtong Thawinee , Anuntrangsee Tanaporn
Published: October 2023

Background: Co-trimoxazole has been reported as a common culprit drug for various cutaneous adverse drug reactions (CADRs). However, information on genotypic and phenotypic characteristics is still limited. We aimed to study clinical characteristics, genetic suitability, laboratory findings, and treatment outcomes in patients with co-trimoxazole-induced CADR and determine variables associated with severe cutaneous adverse reactions (SCARs). Methods: The medical records of all patients diagnosed with co-trimoxazole-induced CADR during October 2015 and October 2021 were reviewed. Clinical characteristics and laboratory investigation with an emphasis on human leukocyte antigen (HLA) class I and HLA-DRB1 results linked to subtypes of cutaneous adverse reactions were evaluated. Results: Seventy-two patients diagnosed with co-trimoxazole-induced CADR were included in the study. Mean age at diagnosis was 38.0 ± 14.6 years old, and 72% were female. Subtypes of reactions included maculopapular eruption (MPE; 56.9%), drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms (DRESS; 23.6%), Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS; 12.5%), fixed drug eruption (4.2%), and urticaria (2.8%). Characteristics that were significantly associated with SCARs included male gender (OR = 3.01, 95% CI: 1.04–8.75), HIV infection (OR = 3.48, 95% CI: 1.13–10.75), prophylactic use of co-trimoxazole (OR = 4.89, 95% CI: 1.54–15.57), and co-trimoxazole administration longer than 10 days (OR = 7.65, 95% CI: 2.57–22.78). HLA-B*38:02 was associated with co-trimoxazole-induced SJS, while HLA-A*11:01, HLA-B*13:01, and HLA-DRB1*12:01 were associated with co-trimoxazole-induced DRESS. HLA-B*52:01 was associated with co-trimoxazole-induced MPE. Conclusions: Co-trimoxazole could induce various phenotypes of CADRs. Genotypic and phenotypic factors that may potentially predict co-trimoxazole-induced SCARs include male gender, HIV infection, prophylactic and prolonged drug use, as well as the presence of HLA-A*11:01, HLA-B*13:01, HLA-B*38:02, or HLA-DRB1*12:01 alleles.
Real-World Data on the Diagnosis, Treatment, and Management of Hepatocellular Carcinoma in the Asia-Pacific: The INSIGHT Study
Authors: Sim Yu Ki , Chong Ming Chuen , Gandhi Mihir , Pokharkar Yogesh Mahadev , Zhu Yanan , Shi Luming , Lequn Li , Chen Chien-Hung , Kudo Masatoshi , Lee Joon Hyeok , Strasser Simone I. , Chanwat Rawisak , Chow Pierce K.H. ,   on behalf of the Asia-Pacific Hepatocellular Carcinoma Trials Group
Published: October 2023

Introduction: Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the sixth most commonly diagnosed cancer and the third leading cause of cancer death worldwide. While there has been rapid evolution in the treatment paradigm of HCC across the past decade, the extent to which these newly approved therapies are utilized in clinical practice in the real world is, however, unknown. The INSIGHT study was an investigator-initiated, multi-site longitudinal cohort study conducted to reflect real-world epidemiology and clinical practice in Asia-Pacific in the immediate 7-year period after the conclusion of the BRIDGE study. Methods: Data were collected both retrospectively (planned 30% of the total cohort size) and prospectively (planned 70%) from January 2013 to December 2019 from eligible patients newly diagnosed with HCC from 33 participating sites across 9 Asia-Pacific countries. Results: A total of 2,533 newly diagnosed HCC patients (1,052 in retrospective cohort and 1,481 in prospective cohort) were enrolled. The most common risk factor was hepatitis B in all countries except Japan, Australia, and New Zealand, where the prevalence of hepatitis C and diabetes were more common. The top three comorbidities reported in the INSIGHT study include cirrhosis, hypertension, and diabetes. We observe high heterogeneity in the first-line treatment recorded across countries and across disease stages, which significantly affects survival outcomes. Stratification by factors such as etiologies, tumor characteristics, the presence of extrahepatic metastases or macrovascular invasion, and the use of subsequent lines of treatment were performed. Conclusion: The INSIGHT study describes a wide spectrum of clinical management practices in HCC, where patient demographics, differential costs, and patient access to therapies may lead to wide geographical variations through the patient’s treatment cycle, from diagnosis to clinical outcome. The high heterogeneity in patient outcomes demonstrates the need for more robust and clinical management strategies to be designed and adopted to bring about better patient outcomes.
Integration of storage technology oversight: power system and computer engineering analogy
Authors: P. Thakre Mohan , M. Thakre Pranali , C. Tapre Pawan , S. Pawase Ramesh , Somnath Kadlag Sunil , Prakash Kadam Deepak , N. Bhadane Satish
Published: October 2023

Energy storage, analogous to data storage in a computer system, is one of the enabling technologies that has emerged alongside the widespread use of renewable energy sources in the nation's power grid. This article shows that the underlying platforms for storing data and energy are quite similar. Batteries and hydrogen storage offer significant energy potential, much like a hard disk for storing vast amounts of data in a computer's central processing unit (CPU). A supercapacitor or flywheel storage device can be used to have emergency power on hand, with access times as fast as random access memory (RAM) in modern computers. In this study, we propose an energy-control scheme for caches that is akin to computer engineering and is used to coordinate the operation of multilevel storage systems that incorporate both capacity and access-oriented storage. By supporting the energy-management system, which in turn provides modern plug-and-play functionality, cache energy control helps optimise the system as a whole. Such an integrated system calls for renewable energy generation, local loads, fueling stations, and connections to gas and electric distribution grids. Distribution energy concepts with various storage systems can be easily grasped by drawing parallels between computer engineering and power system integration.
The novel strategy of electrical arc furnace design and control approach for voltage flicker investigation
Authors: Thakre Mohan P. , C. Tapre Pawan , P. Kadam Deepak , Sharma Mousam , Somnath Kadlag Sunil , Vilas Mahadik Yogesh
Published: October 2023

Voltage flickers and harmonics are power quality (PQ) problems in the electric system during a variation and arc furnace (AF) adaptability. AF creations must determine a harmonic and flicker. This article evaluates complex AF systems. This article presents a newly established time domain (TD) static become to on an AF's V-I attributes (VIA). Static arc configurations are useful for harmonic analyses, but dynamic methods are needed for PQ studies, especially voltage flicker analysis. The MATLAB-based dynamic AF configuration is simulated for four different configurations. A response with configurations 1 and 4 varies from the real AF outcomes. The  simulation results and numerical finding shows that configurations 2 and 3 are much more appropriate and produce better results for minimum 3rd harmonics for arc current, arc voltage, and point of common coupling (PCC) voltage. The novelty of this configuration is that the energy transferred to the load by the AF during the cycle of operation has been identified, making the developed scheme more reliable and dependent on the load's operational conditions. After that, effective applications of these configurations and other configurations' accuracy should be clarified.
A powerful heuristic method for generating efficient database systems
Authors: Abbas Haider Hadi , JosephNg Poh Soon , Khalaf Ahmed Lateef , Tawfeq Jamal Fadhil , Radhi Ahmed Dheyaa
Published: October 2023

Heuristic functions are an integral part of MapReduce software, both in Apache Hadoop and Spark. If the heuristic function performs badly, the load in the reduce part will not be balanced and access times spike. To investigate this problem closer, we run an optimal database program with numerous different heuristic functions on database. We will leverage the Amazon elastic MapReduce framework. The paper investigates on general purpose, implementation, and evaluation of heuristic algorithm for generating optimal database system, checksum, and special heuristic functions. With the analysis, we present the corresponding runtime results. For the coding part, the records counting part is hasty and can only work for local Hadoop part, it can be debugged and optimized for general purpose implement on Hadoop and Spark and turn into an effective performance monitor tool. As mentioned before, there are strange issue, also the performance of BLAKE2s is unexpectedly slow in that it’s widely accepted the performance of BLAKE2s is much better than MD5 and SHA256, we would like to figure out why the common-sense performance of heuristics is deferent from what we got in distributed frameworks.
Tuning proportional integral controller to enhance the photovoltaic system performance
Authors: Nadhim Rasha Fahim , Ibrahim Anmar Khalil
Published: October 2023

This paper presented a closed loop buck-boost converter controlled by using proportional and integral controller (PIC) for photovoltaic (PV) applications. The mathematical equations of design the solar panel type KC200GT and buck–boost converter is illustrated. The electrical behaviors of solar panel are examined at 1,000 light radiation and room temperature (25 °C) situation. A PIC tuning is difficult with conventional methods such as graphs and mathematical analysis, so for that reason two approaches are used for tuning and optimization of PIC, particle swarm optimization (PSO), and Zeigler–Nichols (ZN). The suggested closed loop application through the converter preserves the constant voltage in the output spite of alterations to the input voltage, decreases settling time, overshoot and ripple voltage to minimum value that enhancement the efficiency of the converter. The results show that the PSO approach is improved than the ZN approach. The proposed model is constructed by using SimPower system tool box in MATLAB package.
Tracking the GMPP of a solar photovoltaic water pumping system with an SMC controller in partial shading conditions
Authors: Khadija Sabri , Ouadia El Maguiri , Abdelmajid Farchi
Published: October 2023

The focus of this paper will be on the development of a photovoltaic (PV) pumping system that employs a DC-DC boost converter as an intermediate power conditioning unit in a centrifugal water pump powered by a brushless DC (BLDC) motor supplied by a solar photovoltaic panel (SPV). This work describes a particle swarm optimization (PSO) maximum power point tracking (MPPT) method compared with the gray wolf optimizer (GWO) method that are closed-loop with a sliding mode controller (SMC) in order to control the operational point of a solar PV in partial shading conditions (PSC), the DC-DC boost converter provides a low starting current for the BLDC motor, and the voltage source inverter (VSI) is used to perform electronic commutation of the BLDC motor. Furthermore, the BLDC motor's speed is regulated by the changeable DC link voltage. The system under consideration, as well as the control approaches employed, were created in the MATLAB/Simulink environment.
Grey wolf optimizer for the design optimization of a DC-DC boost converter
Authors: Jyoti Saharia Barnam , Sarmah Nabin
Published: October 2023

Design optimization of a DC-DC boost converters for minimizing overall operational losses is the problem under study. The optimum design contains selecting the best value of circuit inductance, capacitance, and switching frequency for the continuous conduction mode (CCM) operation. The design constraints selected are the current ripple content, ripple content of voltage, and bandwidth for operation in CCM. Grey wolf optimizer (GWO) algorithm is implemented for the boost DC-DC converter’s optimal design. The comparative investigation of algorithms reveals that GWO outperforms other established optimization algorithms like the particle swarm optimization (PSO), moth flame optimization (MFO) algorithm, simulated annealing (SA) and firefly algorithm (FFA) in terms of convergence time, computational effort, and the minimized system losses while finding the most efficient design of the converter. Parametric study on statistical performance indicates that the GWO algorithm outperforms the rest of the optimization algorithms on comparing with previously reported results. The optimized results obtained in the current work provides and improved converter design with reduction in the power loss in the optimized design of the converter by over 15% from previously reported works.
Autonomous and smart cleaning mobile robot system to improve the maintenance efficiency of solar photovoltaic array
Authors: Megantoro Prisma , Abror Abdul , Syahbani Muhammad Akbar , Anugrah Antik Widi , Perkasa Sigit Dani , Setiadi Herlambang , Awalin Lilik Jamilatul , Vigneshwaran Pandi
Published: October 2023

A solar photovoltaic (PV) array is part of a PV power plant as a generation unit. PV array that are usually placed on top of buildings or the ground will be very susceptible to dirt and dust. Thus, this dirt and dust will be able to reduce the performance and work efficiency of the generation unit. Cleaning PV arrays by manpower requires high effort, cost, and risk, especially in higher location. This study presents the design of a mobile robot that is used to replace human labor to clean PV arrays. That way, the PV array maintenance steps can reduce operational costs and risks. This intelligent controlled mobile robot can maneuver safely and efficiently over PV arrays. gyroscope and proximity sensors are used to detect and follow the sweep path over the entire PV array area. Proportional integral derivative (PID) control test makes the robot can stabilize in about 5.72 seconds to keep on the track. The smart PV cleaning robot has average operation time about 13 minutes in autonomous mode and 20-24 minutes in manual mode. The operation of the robot is effective to give more efficiency on the use of energy, time, and maintenance costs of PV array system.
An electronic nose for insecticides detection in food: the case of alpha-cypermethrin in Swiss chard
Authors: Amkor Ali , Aboulkacem Asmae , El Barbri Noureddine
Published: October 2023

Due to the disturbingly high quantities of pesticides found in recent years, it has become essential to analyze the food composition intended for consumption. In this study and from a similar angle, we are interested in the detection of alpha-cypermethrin insecticide residues in edible Swiss chard. To this end, we suggest an electronic nose that was constructed using metal oxide gas sensors. Following data collection and pre-processing, two machine learning algorithms—principal component analysis (PCA) and support vector machine (SVM)—were used to analyze the sensor matrix data. The PCA method initially showed that the first three principal components (PCs) may account for more than 96.5% of the sample variation with a clear distinction between known groups corresponding to treated and untreated samples. The identification of untreated Swiss chard from treated one was then accomplished using the SVM method with five folds cross-validation, with a success rate of 92.3%. These results show that our suggestion, which is quick, easy, and affordable, can be utilized as an effective substitute for current methods for identifying Swiss chard that has been treated with the hazardous alpha-cypermethrin.
Abstract 135: The Noncoding Haplotype Region Of Blood Pressure-associated Single Nucleotide Polymorphism Rs1173771 Regulates The Expression Of Natriuretic Peptide Receptor C
Authors: Mishra Manoj K , Liu Yong , Liu Pengyuan , Pandey Rajan , Therani Bhavika , Grzybowski Michael , Greene Andrew S , Rao Sridhar , Cowley Allen W , Geurts Aron M , Liang Mingyu
Published: October 2023

Genome-wide association studies have identified 1,071 loci containing 26,585 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) as associated with blood pressure (BP). These loci together explain more than 25% of BP heritability. The BP-associated SNP rs1173771 has been associated with
NPR3
expression in human tissues.
NPR3
encodes natriuretic peptide receptor C (NPR-C). The haplotype in linkage disequilibrium (LD) with rs1173771 contains 11 SNPs spanning a noncoding genomic region of more than 17 kbp. The haplotype region is located 126 kbp from the transcription start site of
NPR3
. We used genome editing to examine the effect of the noncoding haplotype region in LD with rs1173771 on gene expression. We employed a CRISPR/Cas9 mediated genetic engineering approach to delete the 17 kbp haplotype region in a human induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) line. Two clones of iPSCs with homozygous deletion of the 17 kbp region were obtained after screening 50 single cell clones. The genomic modification was confirmed by PCR, Sanger sequencing, and whole genome sequencing. Immunofluorescence staining for pluripotency markers indicated that pluripotency was retained following the genome editing procedures. Each edited iPSC clone and the unedited iPSC line were differentiated into endothelial cells (iECs) in 3 independent rounds of differentiation. Real-time PCR analysis showed a 1.59±0.17-fold upregulation of
NPR3
mRNA in iECs with the haplotype region deletion compared to unedited iECs (n=11 and 7, p<0.05). The expression of other neighboring genes (
SUB1
and
TARS
) and a distal gene (
MRPS30
) was not significantly affected by the deletion. The results provide definitive evidence that the noncoding haplotype region in LD with BP-associated SNP rs1173771 regulates the expression of natriuretic peptide receptor C in iECs.
Appraising the Causal Role of Risk Factors in Coronary Artery Disease and Stroke: A Systematic Review of Mendelian Randomization Studies
Authors: Georgiou Andrea N. , Zagkos Loukas , Markozannes Georgios , Chalitsios Christos V. , Asimakopoulos Alexandros G. , Xu Wei , Wang Lijuan , Mesa‐Eguiagaray Ines , Zhou Xuan , Loizidou Eleni M. , Kretsavos Nikolaos , Theodoratou Evropi , Gill Dipender , Burgess Stephen , Evangelou Evangelos , Tsilidis Konstantinos K. , Tzoulaki Ioanna
Published: October 2023

BACKGROUND

Mendelian randomization (MR) offers a powerful approach to study potential causal associations between exposures and health outcomes by using genetic variants associated with an exposure as instrumental variables. In this systematic review, we aimed to summarize previous MR studies and to evaluate the evidence for causality for a broad range of exposures in relation to coronary artery disease and stroke.

METHODS AND RESULTS

MR studies investigating the association of any genetically predicted exposure with coronary artery disease or stroke were identified. Studies were classified into 4 categories built on the significance of the main MR analysis results and its concordance with sensitivity analyses, namely, robust, probable, suggestive, and insufficient. Studies reporting associations that did not perform any sensitivity analysis were classified as nonevaluable. We identified 2725 associations eligible for evaluation, examining 535 distinct exposures. Of them, 141 were classified as robust, 353 as probable, 110 as suggestive, and 926 had insufficient evidence. The most robust associations were observed for anthropometric traits, lipids, and lipoproteins and type 2 diabetes with coronary artery; disease and clinical measurements with coronary artery disease and stroke; and thrombotic factors with stroke.

CONCLUSIONS

Despite the large number of studies that have been conducted, only a limited number of associations were supported by robust evidence. Approximately half of the studies reporting associations presented an MR sensitivity analysis along with the main analysis that further supported the causality of associations. Future research should focus on more thorough assessments of sensitivity MR analyses and further assessments of mediation effects or nonlinearity of associations.
Uric Acid Levels, Number of Standard Modifiable Cardiovascular Risk Factors, and Prognosis in Patients With Coronary Artery Disease: A Large Cohort Study in Asia
Authors: Cui Kongyong , Song Yanjun , Yin Dong , Song Weihua , Wang Hongjian , Zhu Chenggang , Feng Lei , Fu Rui , Jia Lei , Lu Ye , Zhang Dong , Song Chenxi , Yang Yuejin , Dong Qiuting , Dou Kefei
Published: October 2023

Background

Serum uric acid (UA) is correlated closely with traditional cardiovascular risk factors, which might interfere with the action of UA, in patients with coronary artery disease. We performed this study to evaluate the prognostic effect of UA levels in individuals with different numbers of standard modifiable cardiovascular risk factors (SMuRFs).

Methods and Results

In this prospective study, we consecutively enrolled 10 486 patients with coronary artery disease. They were stratified into 3 groups according to the tertiles of UA concentrations and, within each UA tertile, further classified into 3 groups by the number of SMuRFs (0–1 versus 2–3 versus 4). The primary end point was major adverse cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events (MACCEs), including death, myocardial infarction, stroke, and unplanned revascularization. Over a median follow‐up of 2.4 years, 1233 (11.8%) MACCEs were recorded. Patients with high UA levels developed significantly higher risk of MACCEs than those with low UA levels. In addition, UA levels were positively associated with MACCEs as a continuous variable. More importantly, in patients with 0 to 1 SMuRF, the risks of MACCEs were significantly higher in the high‐UA‐level group (adjusted hazard ratio [HR], 1.469 [95% CI, 1.197–1.804]) and medium‐UA‐level group (adjusted HR, 1.478 [95% CI, 1.012–2.160]), compared with the low‐UA‐level group, whereas no significant association was found between UA levels and the risk of MACCEs in participants with 2 to 3 or 4 SMuRFs.

Conclusions

In patients with coronary artery disease who received evidence‐based secondary prevention therapies, elevated UA levels might affect the prognosis of individuals with 0 to 1 SMuRF but not that of individuals with ≥2 SMuRFs.
On the Imperfect ἐβίβασκεν (Homeric Hymn to Apollo 133) and the Causative Forms of the Paradigm of βαίνω
Authors: Delgado José Miguel Jiménez , Zamora Patricia García
Published: October 2023

The imperfect ἐβίβασκεν (h.Ap. 133) has generally been considered an Ionic imperfect of βίβημι / βιβάω. However, its morphosemantic characteristics instead suggest an imperfect of βιβάσκω, a derivative of the former with the suffix -σκω. This present is used in the classical period with a causative value, but in the archaic period was documented in an inchoative sense. This evolution forms part of the development of a causative present corresponding to the sigmatic aorist of βαίνω that involved different formations until the creation of βιβάζω.
(Re)defining Esotericism
Authors: Engler Steven , Gardiner Mark Q.
Published: October 2023

This article moves past discussing definitions of esotericism to clarifying the nature of definition itself. After reviewing different approaches to definition, we argue that rigid definitions (which propose necessary and sufficient conditions) are problematic, and that fluid definitions (which seek to clarify, explain, teach etc.) are a better alternative. We then discuss homeostatic property cluster definitions, which are like family-resemblance definitions, but with explicit justification for the particular set of defining criteria. We propose a related but more flexible stable property cluster definition of esotericism. It is intended as a useful focus for ongoing discussion, not as a candidate for the single correct definition. Throughout the article, we contrast meaning realism and meaning antirealism (not ontological realism/antirealism), making a case that the latter is more useful in this context. We end by suggesting that our definitional approach has value for exploring both the global spread of western esotericisms and, more importantly, the extent to which esotericism intersects with the semantic fields of comparable categories in other languages and cultures.
A new species of Leucoagaricus (Agaricaceae, Basidiomycota) from Changa Manga Forest, Pakistan
Authors: KHALIL HAJRA , AYYUB MISBAH , AKRAM AIZA , NIAZI ABDUL REHMAN
Published: October 2023

During a study of the genus Leucoagaricus in Pakistan, we collected a putatively new species with a distinct morphology, anatomy and ITS nrDNA profile from Changa Manga, Punjab. The new species is characterized by the presence of reddish brown central squamules on a milk-white background, thick-walled and ellipsoid spores, narrowly sub-cylindrical to subclavate cheilocystidia and cylindrical stipe. A full description, color photographs, line drawings and a phylogenetic tree of the new species are provided.
Lessons Learned and Simple Hopes: Implications of the Pandemic for Communication Scholarship
Authors: Ewoldsen David R.
Published: October 2023

Communication scholars demonstrated a remarkable level of methodological creativity to overcome the restrictions on conducting research necessitated by the pandemic. This methodological creativity allowed us to provide answers to many critical questions that arouse during the pandemic. Now the risk is that scholars will diminish data gathered during the pandemic as tainted by pandemic-related confounds. Certainly, the pandemic offered many threats to the internal validity of research, but this should be embraced as an opportunity to learn from these unique confounds to increase the specificity of our theories.
A enhanced control strategy for capacitance voltage equalization in modular multilevel converter
Authors: Ding Chao , Zhang Jinqi , Cheng Yanming , Al Shurafa Mahmoud AM , Zhao Yulian , Liu Peilin , Lee Ilkyoo
Published: October 2023

In searching for the optimal control strategy of sub-module capacitance voltage equalization of Modular Multilevel Converter (MMC), the most important issue is how to address the significant increase in computing time of the controller, switching frequency of the sub-module, device switching loss and MMC fault rate led by the increase in the number of sub-modules of the upper/lower bridge arm of the MMC. Therefore, this paper proposes a control strategy based on the retaining factor method + improved quick sort, namely, an improved quick sort algorithm is used to sort the sub-module capacitance voltages to reduce the amount of computation of the MMC controller; at the same time, a retaining factor is introduced to participate in the improved quick sort to significantly reduce the switching frequency of the sub-module. MMC of large ship grid-connected photovoltaic power system is taken as a research object in this paper, a 31-level MMC model is built in Matlab/Simulink. Simulation results verify that the improved quick sort has a good rapidity compared to the algorithms of bubble sort, quick sort, bidirectional bubble sort, and improved merge sort, that the retention factor method has a good frequency reduction effect, and that the proposed retention factor + improved quick sort can provide a good performance compared to improved quick sort and retention factor + improved merge sort under conditions of the normal operation and introducing disturbance.
Trends and Barriers of Medication Treatment for Opioid Use Disorders: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Hutchison Morica , Russell Beth S. , Leander Abigail , Rickles Nathaniel , Aguiar Derek , Cong Xiaomei S. , Harel Ofer , Hernandez Adrian V.
Published: October 2023

Adherence to and retention in Medication Treatment for Opioid Use Disorders (MOUD) persist. We systematically reviewed trends of USA MOUD adherence, retention, and barriers from 2011–2021. Primary outcomes were adherence to and retention in MOUD, abstinence, adverse events, and treatment barriers. Effects of inverse variance random meta-analyses were examined using proportions and 95% CIs. 28 studies (102,318 patients), 78.1% male. Adherence was 56% across all studies, highest for methadone (73%). Retention by study design was heterogeneous: case series (57%), cohorts (47%), and RCTs (70%). The most common barriers were younger age, comorbid diagnoses, daily attendance, no insurance, and transportation. Abstinence was 72%, and adverse events was 5%. There was high heterogeneity in MOUD across drug types and study designs. Our findings extend the knowledge base of MOUD treatment to describe barriers that underpin the focus on retention in care above adherence given its focus to harm reduction principles.
Engaging Residents in Community Change: The Critical Role of Trust in the Development of a Promise Neighborhood
Authors: Geller Joanna D. , Doykos Bernadette , Craven Krista , Bess Kimberly D. , Nation Maury
Published: October 2023

Background

Currently, there is great enthusiasm surrounding place-based initiatives for school reform, such as the Harlem Children's Zone, Promise Neighborhoods, and other initiatives that attend to the multiple contexts that influence child development. However, past efforts to bridge schools, families, and communities have been undermined by mistrust between and among stakeholders. Although trust is a building block for effective collaboration, there is little deliberate attention to cultivating it.

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to use a case example of a low-income neighborhood currently developing a Promise Neighborhoods initiative to explore how variations in trust between and among community residents, local institutions, and school staff in the problem definition and assessment phase may threaten or facilitate the success of the initiative.

Setting

We conducted this study in a low-income, predominantly African-American neighborhood in a midsize southeastern city.

Participants

There were 44 participants, including parents, school administrators and staff, service providers, and high school students.

Research Design

We used qualitative research methods, including eight focus groups and observations.

Data Collection and Analysis

Focus groups were audio-recorded and transcribed verbatim. Multiple researchers coded the transcripts. Trust emerged as a key theme through open coding, and we used focused coding to explore this theme in detail.

Findings

The findings corroborate previous studies that have found relatively low levels of relational trust between residents, between residents and local institutions, and between residents and school staff. Additionally, we identified “seeds of trust” that indicate opportunities to cultivate trusting relationships between stakeholders that can be developed and replicated in this neighborhood and others undertaking similar initiatives.

Conclusions

Promise Neighborhoods and similar initiatives should intentionally address low levels of trust through activities such as community asset mapping, programs with a deliberate relational focus, and partnerships with agencies that address the systematic roots of trust.
Mechanism of heart failure after myocardial infarction
Authors: Jiang Huaiyu , Fang Tingting , Cheng Zeyi
Published: October 2023

Despite the widespread use of early revascularization and drugs to regulate the neuroendocrine system, the impact of such measures on alleviating the development of heart failure (HF) after myocardial infarction (MI) remains limited. Therefore, it is important to discuss the development of new therapeutic strategies to prevent or reverse HF after MI. This requires a better understanding of the potential mechanisms involved. HF after MI is the result of complex pathophysiological processes, with adverse ventricular remodeling playing a major role. Adverse ventricular remodeling refers to the heart’s adaptation in terms of changes in ventricular size, shape, and function under the influence of various regulatory factors, including the mechanical, neurohormonal, and cardiac inflammatory immune environments; ischemia/reperfusion injury; energy metabolism; and genetic correlation factors. Additionally, unique right ventricular dysfunction can occur secondary to ischemic shock in the surviving myocardium. HF after MI may also be influenced by other factors. This review summarizes the main pathophysiological mechanisms of HF after MI and highlights sex-related differences in the prognosis of patients with acute MI. These findings provide new insights for guiding the development of targeted treatments to delay the progression of HF after MI and offering incremental benefits to existing therapies.
Analysis of cell populations in the normal rhesus macaque (Macaca mulatta) lower intestinal tract and diagnostic thresholds for chronic enterocolitis
Authors: Bacon Rebecca L. , Taylor Loni , Gray Stanton B. , Hodo Carolyn L.
Published: October 2023

Rhesus macaques ( Macaca mulatta) are used extensively in biomedical research, often with a focus on the gastrointestinal tract, and yet a full characterization of their normal resident intestinal cell populations has not been published. In addition, chronic enterocolitis (CE), also known as idiopathic chronic diarrhea, affects up to 25% of colony-housed rhesus macaques, often requiring euthanasia for welfare concerns and severely limiting their value as a breeding animal or research subject. We aimed to characterize subjective and objective variables in sections of the ileum, cecum, colon, and rectum in 16 healthy rhesus macaques and compare these results with a cohort of 37 animals euthanized for CE to produce relevant diagnostic thresholds and to improve case definitions for future studies. We found neutrophils to be an infrequent but expected component of the large intestinal leukocyte population. Animals with CE had significantly increased total leukocyte populations between crypts in the cecum, colon, and rectum; variable increases in specific cell populations across all levels of the distal intestinal tract; and significantly increased intraepithelial CD3+ T cells in the colon and rectum. Concentrations of enteroendocrine cells, enterochromaffin cells, and intestinal mast cells were not significantly different between healthy and affected individuals. This study characterizes individual leukocyte populations in the rhesus macaque lower intestinal tract, is the first to evaluate rhesus macaque intestinal mast cells, and provides key diagnostic thresholds for evaluating animals with potential CE.
Outcome of Permanent Canine Teeth Following Extraction of Linguoverted Deciduous Mandibular Canine Teeth in 28 Dogs
Authors: Ringen Davin , Hoyer Naomi , Vall Patrick
Published: October 2023

Linguoverted mandibular canine teeth (LMC) are a common cause of class 1 malocclusion, which may result in a traumatic occlusion. When deciduous LMC are diagnosed, extraction is commonly performed to alleviate traumatic occlusion. This retrospective study was designed to observe the outcome of the permanent dentition in dogs with a class 1 malocclusion receiving treatment for deciduous LMC. Medical records from a veterinary dental referral hospital were used to identify patients that underwent extraction of deciduous LMC's prior to the eruption of the permanent mandibular canine teeth. The permanent occlusion was then evaluated once the permanent mandibular canine teeth were erupting. Of the 28 dogs identified and treated for deciduous LMC's, 78.6% (22/28) had a normal permanent occlusion. The 6 patients identified with permanent LMC's were all diagnosed when the patients were between 20 and 29 weeks of age. Of these 6 patients, 5 received gingivectomy and gingivoplasty treatment to correct the permanent LMC. Treatment was declined by the pet owner of the sixth patient. Overall, the majority of dogs in this study with a class 1 malocclusion and deciduous LMC's treated with extractions prior to the eruption of the permanent mandibular canine teeth had a normal permanent occlusion.