bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Joubert syndrome with bilateral peroneal neuropathies: A case report
Authors: Kim Hyeong-Min , Jo Hyun-Seok , Han Jae-Young , Choi In-Sung , Song Min-Keun , Park Hyeng-Kyu
Published: November 2023

Background
Joubert syndrome is a rare genetic disorder that presents with various neurological symptoms, primarily involving central nervous system dysfunction. Considering the etiology of Joubert syndrome, peripheral nervous system abnormalities cannot be excluded; however, cases of Joubert syndrome accompanied by peripheral nervous system abnormalities have not yet been reported. Distinct radiological findings on brain magnetic resonance imaging were considered essential for the diagnosis of Joubert syndrome. However, recently, cases of Joubert syndrome with normal or nearly normal brain morphology have been reported. To date, there is no consensus on the most appropriate diagnostic method for Joubert syndrome when imaging-based diagnostic approach is challenging. This report describes the case of an adult patient who exhibited bilateral peroneal neuropathies and was finally diagnosed with Joubert syndrome through genetic testing.
Case presentation:
A 27-year-old man visited our outpatient clinic due to a gait disturbance that started at a very young age. The patient exhibited difficulty maintaining balance, especially when walking slowly. Oculomotor apraxia was observed on ophthalmic evaluation. During diagnostic workups, including brain imaging and direct DNA sequencing, no conclusive findings were detected. Only nerve conduction studies revealed profound bilateral peroneal neuropathies. We performed whole genome sequencing to obtain a proper diagnosis and identify the gene mutation responsible for Joubert syndrome.
Conclusions
This case represents the first instance of peripheral nerve dysfunction in Joubert syndrome. Further research is needed to explore the association between Joubert syndrome and peripheral nervous system abnormalities. Detailed genetic testing may serve as a valuable tool for diagnosing Joubert syndrome when no prominent abnormalities are detected in brain imaging studies.
Comparative analysis of characteristics based on three processes of kenaf solid fuel: Hydrothermal carbonization, torrefaction and low ash torrefaction
Authors: Youn Hee Sun , Kim Ga Hee , Um Byung-Hwan
Published: November 2023

This study conducted three processes—hydrothermal carbonization (HTC), torrefaction (TOR) and ash removal, and low ash TOR (LA_TOR)—to compare the characteristics of kenaf-based solid fuel under different production processes. To produce solid fuels, the ash removal process was conducted at 50 °C for 60 min in an autoclave, followed by HTC or TOR at various temperatures (160, 200, 240, 280, and 320 °C) for 60 min. The chemical compositions and fuel properties of the resulting products were then analyzed and compared. The study found that under HTC at 320 °C, the product had the highest carbon content compared with the products from TOR and LA_TOR at 320 °C. Thus, out of the three methods, HTC produced the highest quality solid fuel. However, this process exhibited a low energy yield and large energy loss. In contrast, LA_TOR showed a high energy yield and low energy loss, and effectively reduced the ash content of the product, demonstrating its suitability for industrial-scale applications that require fuel with LA content and energy loss.
Layer-dependent effect of Aβ-pathology on cortical microstructure with ex-vivo human brain diffusion MRI at 7 Tesla
Authors: Zhao Zhiyong , Cao Zuozhen , Zhu Qinfeng , Xu Haoan , Li Sihui , Zhu Liangying , Xu Guojun , Zhu Keqing , Zhang Jing , Wu Dan
Published: November 2023

Background
The laminar-specific distributions of Aβ and Tau deposition in the neocortex of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) have been established. However, direct evidence about the effect of AD pathology on cortical microstructure is lacking in human studies.
Methods
We performed high-resolution T2-weighted and diffusion-weighted MRI (dMRI) on fifteen ex-vivo whole-hemisphere specimens, including eight cases with an AD pathology, three cases with primary age-related tauopathy (PART) and four healthy controls (HCs). Using the diffusion tensor model, we evaluated microstructure patterns in six layers of grey matter cortex and performed MRI-histology correlation analysis across cortical layers.
Results
Aβ-positive cases exhibited higher diffusivity than Aβ-negative cases (PART and HC) in selected cortical regions, particularly in the inferior frontal cortex. Both Aβ/Tau depositions and dMRI-based microstructural markers demonstrated distinct cortical layer-dependent and region-specific patterns. A significant positive correlation was observed between increased diffusivity and Aβ burden across six cortical layers, but not with Tau burden. Furthermore, the mean diffusivity in layer-V of the inferior frontal cortex significantly increased with the Amyloid stage.
Conclusion
Our findings demonstrate a layer-dependent effect of Aβ-pathology on cortical microstructure of the human brain, which may be used to serve as early markers of AD pathology.
Associations Between Non-nutritive Sucking Habits, Developing Malocclusion and Various Feeding Practices in 3-6-year-old Indian Urban Children: a Case- Control Study
Authors: Singh Priyanka , Jawdekar Ashwin
Published: November 2023

Background: Nutritive sucking and non-nutritive sucking (NNS) may affect the craniofacial development, differently.
Aim and objectives: We investigated associations between non-nutritive sucking habits (NNSH), developing malocclusion and various feeding practices in 3-6-year-old children.
Study design: A sample of 350 children of 3-6-year-old from various preschools was selected for this case-control study (94 with NNSH and 256 without NNSH). NNSH (outcome) and feeding practices and developing malocclusions (exposures) were assessed using a structured study tool.
Results: The prevalence of NNSH in 3-6- year-old children was 26.8%. The odds [95% (CI)] of boys compared to girls having NNSH were 0.66 (0.4121 to 1.706) [p=.0290]. The overall prevalence of developing malocclusion in 3-6-year-old children was 34.01% out of which open bite was most commonly reported with 12.57% followed by spacing 8.5%, increased overjet 6.8%, crowding 2.2%, posterior crossbite and rotation 1.4% and overbite 1.14%. Breastfeeding was found to be the most commonly used mode of feeding reported by 53.42% of mothers. It was found that the odds [95% (CI)] of subjects having NNSH were 0.66 [0.4694 to 0.9460] (p <.0001) who were not breastfed as compared to those who were breastfed. Amongst developing malocclusions, increased overjet with p =.0019, open bite with p =.0416 and spacing with p =.0243 were found to be associated with feeding practices.
Conclusion: To conclude, the prevalence of NNSH and developing malocclusions (increased overjet, open bite and spacing) were 26.8% and 34.01% respectively. Breastfeeding played a protective role against developing NNSH.
Radiomics models of contrast-enhanced computed tomography for predicting the activity and prognosis of acute pancreatitis
Authors: Yu Ningjun , Li Xing Hui , Liu Chao , Chen Chao , Xu Wenhan , Chen Chao , Chen Yong , Liu TingTing , Chen Tianwu , Zhang Ming
Published: November 2023

Background
The modified Pancreatitis Activity Scoring System (mPASS) was proposed to assess the activity of acute pancreatitis (AP) while it doesn’t include indicators that directly reflect pathophysiology processes and characteristics of imaging.
Objectives
To determine the threshold of admission mPASS and investigate radiomics and laboratory parameters to construct a model to predict the activity of AP.
Methods
AP inpatients at institution 1 were randomly divided into training and validation groups based on a 5:5 ratio. AP inpatients at institution 2 were served as test group. The cutoff value of admission mPASS scores in predicting severe AP was selected to divide patients into high and low level of disease activity group. LASSO was used in screening features. Multivariable logistic regression was used to develop radiomics model. Meaningful laboratory parameters were used to construct combined model.
Results
There were 234 (48 years ± 10, 155 men) and 101 (48 years ± 11, 69 men) patients in two institutions. The threshold of admission mPASS score was 112.5 in severe AP prediction. The AUC of the radiomics model were 0.79, 0.72 and 0.76 and that of the combined model incorporating rad-score and white blood cell were 0.84, 0.77 and 0.80 in three groups for activity prediction. The AUC of the combined model in predicting disease without remission was 0.76.
Conclusions
The threshold of admission mPASS was 112.5 in predicting severe AP. The model base on CECT radiomics has the ability to predict AP activity. Its ability to predict disease without remission is comparable to mPASS.
Prognostic values of left atrial strain analyzed by the dedicated four-dimensional speckle-tracking echocardiography in end-stage renal disease patients with preserved left ventricular ejection fraction
Authors: Li Lei , You Chunyuan , Zhang Lai , Yang Jun , Wang Yang , Zhang Pingyang
Published: November 2023

Background
Little is known about the prognostic value of left atrial strain by four-dimensional speckle-tracking echocardiography in end-stage renal disease(ESRD) patients with preserved left ventricular ejection fraction(LVEF).
Methods
This prospective study collected clinical and echocardiographic data from 80 stable dialysis patients (mean age 57 ± 10 years; 62.5% men). All patients underwent the dedicated four-dimensional speckle-tracking echocardiography to measure LASr (peak longitudinal strain of reservoir function), LAScd (peak longitudinal strain of conduit function), LASct (peak longitudinal strain of contractile function), LASr_c (peak circumferential strain of reservoir function), LAScd_c (peak circumferential strain of conduit function) and LASct_c (peak circumferential strain of contractile function). These patients were enrolled from August 2021 to August 2023 and followed-up for 19months (interquartile-range 15 to 20months). The primary outcome was a composite of all-cause mortality or major adverse cardiovascular events (MACEs). The study patients were classified into event (developed mortality or MACEs) and event-free group according to the primary outcome. Multivariate Cox regression analysis was used to investigate risk factors for all-cause mortality or MACEs.
Results
The event group had lower LASr (16.4% vs. 21.2%, P = 0.0003), LASct (8.2% vs.11.2%, P = 0.01), LASr_c (25.2% vs.35.0%, P = 0.0004) and LASct_c (14.9%vs. 20.9%, P = 0.001) than the event-free group. Using the mean left atrial strain value as a cutoff, the less LASr (LASr < 20.2%), LASr_c (LASr_c < 32.9%), and LASct_c (LASct_c < 19.6%)group had a higher mortality or MACEs rate. Multivariate cox regression analyses revealed that LASr (HR = 0.81, 95% CI [0.17; 0.91], P = 0.0005, per 1% increase) and LASr_c (HR = 0.93, 95% CI [0.87; 0.98], p = 0.01, per 1% increase) were independent predictors of all-cause mortality or MACEs.
Conclusions
Less peak longitudinal and circumferential strains of reservoir function are predictive of poor prognosis among end-stage renal disease patients with preserved left ventricular ejection fraction.
Genetically predicted gynecologic surgery and risk of breast cancer in European population
Authors: Feng Guoliang , Gong Hongyang
Published: November 2023

Purpose
We conducted Mendelian randomization (MR) analyses to investigate the associations between gynecologic surgery and risk of breast cancer.
Methods
We performed MR using publicly accessible genome-wide association study (GWAS) datasets. Our primary analytical method was the inverse variance weighted (IVW) method. Additionally, we utilized complementary methods, including MR-Egger regression, weighted median, and MR-PRESSO. To assess potential horizontal pleiotropy, we conducted the MR-Egger intercept test and employed the global test for pleiotropic residuals and outliers through the MR-Presso method. We also assessed instrumental heterogeneity using the Cochran Q statistic. In addition, we conducted analyses of risk factors to further explore possible mediator relationships for causal inference.
Results
The initial findings from the IVW analysis reveal a statistically significant relationship between hysterectomy and ER- breast cancer (OR(Odds Ratio) = 82.73, 95% Confidence Interval (CI) = 1.45–4.73 × 103, p = 0.032). These results were consistent with those obtained from MR-Egger regression, where bilateral ovariectomy demonstrates a statistically significant link with ER + breast cancer (OR = 6.42 × 10− 2, 95% CI = 6.08 × 10− 3 − 0.68, p = 0.022). Importantly, the robustness of these findings was confirmed in all sensitivity analyses.
Conclusion
Our study reveals an association between gynecological surgery and breast cancer and menorrhagia and irregular menstruation is a potential mediator.
Fabrication of Scalable Mesoporous Zincospiroffite (Zn2Te3O8) -RGO Hybrid Electrodes for Low-Cost High-Performance Supercapacitors
Authors: Ramakrishnan Aswini , Meethal Bhabhina Ninnora , Thekkethil Shaniba , Swaminathan Sindhu
Published: November 2023

A zincospiroffite-reduced graphene oxide (Zn2Te3O8-RGO) hybrid material was synthesized using a straightforward, cost-efficient method for the preparation of an efficient electrode material for supercapacitor application. In ambient conditions, a one-step solvothermal synthesis produces a black glittering composite of Zn2Te3O8-RGO. The structure and morphology of the material was analyzed by using FE-SEM, Fourier Transform Infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and Raman scattering. The electrode material was designed to be highly conductive and wettable. A symmetric supercapacitor made of hybrid electrode material exhibits a high specific capacitance of 600 F/g at 1A/g with energy and power densities of 83.33 Wh/kg and 0.99 kW/kg, respectively. A specific capacitance of 513.51 F/g at 10 mV/s with 99% retention has also been measured after 5000 charge-discharge cycles. The hybrid material combines well with an aqueous electrolyte, such as 0.1 M KNO3, to form a symmetric supercapacitor with higher power and energy density. For energy storage applications, this material can be an excellent alternative to conventional electrodes.
Experience in treating children with ocular dyskinesia and hemifacial spasm secondary to pontine tumours adjacent to the fourth ventricle
Authors: Cai Yingjie , Yang Wei , Peng Xiaojiao , Yuan Liu , Ge Ming
Published: November 2023

Objective
To investigate the treatment plan and prognosis of children with ocular dyskinesia and hemifacial spasm secondary to pontine tumours adjacent to the fourth ventricle.
Methods
In this retrospective study, the clinical information of 10 consecutively collected children with ocular dyskinesia and hemifacial spasm secondary to pontine tumours adjacent to the fourth ventricle was analysed. All 10 children underwent pontine tumour resection through a transcerebellomedullary fissure approach; 4 children underwent preoperative diffusion tensor imaging scans to determine the relationship between the tumour and facial nerve nucleus, and the other 6 children underwent intraoperative deep electroencephalography (EEG) tumour monitoring, in which the tumour electrical discharge activity of the tumour was recorded. A voxel distribution map was established to describe the distribution of the tumour location, and patient prognosis was evaluated through clinical and imaging follow-up.
Results
All 10 children achieved total tumour resection; 9 tumours were pathologically suggested to be ganglioglioma (WHO grade I), and 1 was a hamartoma. The symptoms of the original ocular dyskinesia and hemifacial spasm disappeared immediately after the operation. The children were followed up for 4–75 months, and none of the symptoms recurred; four cases with preoperative diffusion tensor imaging showed that the tumour was close to the facial nerve. Four in six intraoperative electrophysiological monitoring showed that the tumour had electrical discharge behaviour, and the tumor distribution map indicates a high density of tumor presence in the facial nerve nucleus and the nucleus of the abducens nerve.
Conclusions
In paediatric patients, the facial symptoms are related to the location and abnormal electrical discharge of the tumour. No significant correlation between ocular dyskinesia and the location of the tumour. Conventional antiepileptic therapy for this disease is ineffective, and early surgical intervention for total tumour resection can achieve a clinical curative effect.
Study on spatial form evolution of traditional villages in Jiuguan under the influence of external traffic changes
Authors: Lin Zurui , Liang Yuan , Liu Xiaohui
Published: November 2023

Traditional villages are China's cultural heritage resources; they carry rich historical and cultural information and have important historical significance and cultural value. Studying their spatial forms can suggest new ideas for the protection of traditional villages. The spatial configuration of traditional villages is shaped by a complex interplay of natural geography, socio-economic factors, transportation infrastructure, and essential facilities. Various developmental scenarios lead to diverse spatial development patterns, each demonstrating unique dynamic characteristics throughout its evolution. This article focuses on the exploration of the spatial morphology of Jiuguan Village, located along the Jingxing Ancient Post Road. By using kernel density analysis, space syntax, spatial form index, and so on, the spatial form of Jiuguan Village was studied from three aspects: public facilities clustering degree, road system, and spatial form index. Through a hierarchical approach involving points, lines, and planes, our study unveils the multifaceted influence of transportation factors on the village's historical development and its dynamic adaptive attributes within the context of traditional village spatial morphology. The results indicated that the location advantage of traffic is the driving force behind land expansion. Secondly, the areas with high traffic accessibility tend to be public spaces in villages. Third, the change in the transportation market will lead to a change in village land use functions. Finally, the renewal of transportation modes will change the spatial scale of the village. This research offers a deeper comprehension of the historical context surrounding traditional villages and provides a scientifically guided framework for heritage preservation and sustainable village development.
Multi-protein targeting potential of some urea, thiourea, and selenourea derivatives of diselenides in leishmaniasis: molecular docking screening, oral bioavailability analysis, ADMET profiling, and molecular dynamics simulation
Authors: Ugbe Fabian Audu , Edache Emmanuel Israel , Ayuba Abdullahi Muhammad , Ibrahim Muhammad Tukur , Umar Abdullahi Bello , Adeniji Shola Elijah , Al-Megrin Wafa Abdullah I. , Eltayeb Lienda Bashier , Thagfan Felwa Abdullah , Albutti Aqel , Al-Shouli Samia , Abdalla Mohnad
Published: November 2023

Leishmaniasis affects more than twelve million people globally and a further one billion people are at risk in leishmaniasis endemic areas. The lack of a vaccine for leishmaniasis coupled with the limitations of existing anti-leishmanial therapies prompted this study. Computational techniques have profound applications in screening large libraries of compounds, studying protein-ligand interactions, analysing pharmacokinetic properties, and designing new drug entities with great speed, accuracy, and precision. This study was carried out to evaluate the multi-protein targeting potential of some diselenides by virtual docking screening using four Leishmania protein targets (2XOX, 3SPX, 5ZWY, and 6K91). Selected analogues were screened using Lipinski filter, and the resulting lead compounds were profiled by ADMET, density functional theory (DFT), and molecular dynamics (MD) simulation analyses. The overall average binding affinity of ligands to target proteins follow the order: 3SPX (-184.998) > 6K91 (-180.114) > 2XOX (-176.581) > 5ZWY (-157.198). Also, both reference drugs (Miltefosine and Pentamidine) showed relatively weaker interactions with the studied receptors. Only compounds 4, 7, 25, and 26 passed the drug-likeness test performed on the seven diselenides with relatively higher multi-protein binding potential. These compounds also showed good pharmacokinetic properties and compared excellently to both reference drugs. The results of the DFT study and MD simulation, suggest the reactivity, favourability, and stability of these compounds in their binding with tested targets; 3SPX and 6K91. Conclusively, the selected diselenides could be developed as potential anti-leishmanial drug molecules and/or as useful scaffolds for designing superior anti-leishmanial agents.
Nutrient resorption efficiency of Heritiera fomes Buch. Ham and Excoecaria agallocha L
Authors: Saha Sanjoy , Rahman Md. Mustafizur , Jahan Roksana , Siddique Mohammad Raqibul Hasan , Saha Chameli , Hossain Mahmood
Published: November 2023

Nutrient resorption is a nutrient conservation approach for plants growing in nutrient-poor habitats. The nutrients (Nitrogen, Phosphorus and Potassium) resorbed from leaves of Heritiera fomes and Excoecaria agallocha in the Sundarbans, Bangladesh were examined. Mature green leaves and yellowish senescent leaves of the dominant individual of each species were picked from the selected trees during the prominent seasons. Soil samples were collected from the same sites and occasions. Comparatively (p < 0.05), a higher concentration of N (12.64 ± 1.05 mg/g), P (0.42 ± 0.18 mg/g) and K (10.79 ± 0.14) was observed in green mature leaves of H. fomes during the monsoon season. Similar (p > 0.05) concentration (8.33 ± 1.07 to 9.76 ± 1.40 mg/g) of N was detected for the green mature leaves of E. agallocha throughout the seasons. In contrast, higher concentrations of P and K were observed in the monsoon season. The highest nitrogen resorption efficiencies for H. fomes and E. agallocha were 76.94% and 63.33%, respectively during the pre-monsoon season followed by post-monsoon season. Heritiera fomes was more efficient in N and K resorption, while E. agallocha was more efficient in P resorption. The nutrient resorption efficiency of H. fomes and E. agallocha indicated the adaptation mechanism towards harsh environments, especially nutrient-poor conditions.
Potential correlations between asymmetric disruption of functional connectivity and metabolism in major depression disorder
Authors: Yang Yu , Ye Haibiao , Yan Haohao , Zhang Chunguo , Li Wenxuan , Li Zhijian , Liang Jiaquan , Li Xiaoling , Xie Guojun , Ou Yangpan , Li Xuesong , Guo Wenbin
Published: November 2023

Objective: Previous research has suggested a connection between major depressive disorder (MDD) and certain comorbidities, including gastrointestinal issues, thyroid dysfunctions, and glycolipid metabolism abnormalities. However, the relationships between these factors and asymmetrical alterations in functional connectivity (FC) in adults with MDD remain unclear.
Method: We conducted a study on a cohort of 42 MDD patients and 42 healthy controls (HCs). Participants underwent comprehensive clinical assessments, including evaluations of blood lipids and thyroid hormonelevels, as well as resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging (Rs-fMRI) scans. Data analysis involved correlation analysis to compute the parameter of asymmetry (PAS) for the entire brain's functional connectome. We then examined the interrelationships between abnormal PAS regions in the brain, thyroid hormone levels, and blood lipid levels.
Results: Thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) level was found to be significantly lower in MDD patients compared to HCs. The PAS score of the left inferior frontal gyrus (IFG) decreased, while the bilateral posterior cingulate cortex (Bi-PCC) PAS increased in MDD patients relative to HCs. Notably, the PAS score of the left IFG negatively correlated with both TSH and total CHOL levels, but this correlation became non-significant after the Bonferroni correction.
Conclusion: MDD patients demonstrated abnormal asymmetry in resting-state functional connectivity (Rs-FC) within the fronto-limbic system, which may be associated with blood lipids and thyroid hormone levels.
Development of Ranking for Sustainable Forest Management Criteria in Peninsular Malaysia by using the Method based on the Removal Effects of Criteria
Authors: Azman Anis Izzatie , Zaibidi Nerda , Nawawi Mohd Kamal Mohd
Published: November 2023

Peninsular Malaysia has approximately 13.22 million acres of land, with approximately 5.69 million acres forested throughout the state. The forests of peninsular Malaysia will also produce millions of cubic metres of logs, sawn timber, plywood, veneer, and moulding by 2021. Because the forest produces so many resources, it also causes a slew of issues, such as illegal logging and flash floods. SFM takes a holistic approach to ensuring that forest operations provide social, environmental, and economic benefits, that competing needs are balanced, and that forest functioning is preserved and improved today and in the future. The goal of this research is to rank the criteria for three critical dimensions: environmental, economic, and social, that will affect the level of sustainability of forest management in Peninsular Malaysia. This study employs the Method Based on the Removal Effects of Criteria (MEREC) to identify the objective weight and rank all the criteria. The result shows that there are three criteria that have a big impact on all dimensions and another three criteria may not be included since they have no impact on the respective dimensions. With all conclusions, it shows that MEREC is a consistent and reliable method to be considered.
Identification of a Macrophage Marker Gene Signature to Evaluate Immune Infiltration and Therapeutic Response in Hepatocellular Carcinoma Based on Single-cell and Bulk RNA Sequencing Data
Authors: Li Tong , Xu Xin , Nakayama Kiyoko , Ren Zhenggang , Zhang Lan
Published: November 2023

Background
Only a minority of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients can benefit from systemic regimens. Macrophages, which abundantly infiltrate in HCC, could mediate tumour microenvironment remodelling and immune escape, proving to be powerful weapons in combating HCC. Thus, a deeper understanding of macrophages is necessary for improving existing antitumour treatments.
Methods
By leveraging a series of bioinformatic and machine learning approaches, we comprehensively explored the transcriptomic landscape of human HCCs and the role of macrophages related genes in HCC from multiple single-cell and bulk RNA sequencing datasets. The uniform manifold approximation and projection (UMAP) was utilized for dimensionality reduction and the FindAllMarkers function was used to detecting for differentially expressed genes (DEGs). Unsupervised clustering was performed using the “ConsensusClusterPlus” to cluster the macrophage marker genes (MMGs). Further, Gene set variation analysis (GSVA) and Function Enrichment Analysis to elucidate the functional difference of the MMGs associated clusters. Subsequently, identified 12 hub genes, based on which component analysis algorithm (PCA) was employed to construct Macrosig score. Meanwhile, the prognosis, biological characteristics, mutation profile, TME cell-infiltrating and drug response of different Macrosig score were analysised.
Results
Our studies identified 13 macrophage marker genes (MMGs) based on 574 HCC samples, based on which three MMG-associated clusters(A,B,C) were defined. Patients in cluster B were significantly associated with favorable overall survival, clinicopathological features and a lower immune infiltration score. On this basis, 12 hub genes were identified among these clusters, subsequently a scoring system by principal component analysis was constructed terming the Macrosig score. Importantly, patients with low Macrosig score, characterized by higher immune infiltration, increased mutation frequency and higher immune checkpoint expression including CTLA-4, LAG3, PDCD1 and TIGIT, exhibiting enhanced efficacy of immunotherapy as expected when validated in external database. Moreover, for molecular targeted therapy, low Macrosig score indicates increased sensitivity to AZD.2281, A.443654, ABT.263, ABT.888, AG.014699 and ATRA, while high Macrosig score were more likely to be sensitive to AZD6482, AKT inhibitor VIII, AS601245, AZ628, AZD.0530 and AZD6244.
Conclusions
In summary, a novel scoring system based on macrophage subclusters was constructed, thereby guiding more effective prognostic evaluation and tailored therapeutic regimens of HCC patients.
Sustained attention operates via dissociable neural mechanisms across different eccentric locations
Authors: Phangwiwat Tanagrit , Punchongharn Phond , Wongsawat Yodchanan , Chatnuntawech Itthi , Wang Sisi , Chunharas Chaipat , Sprague Thomas , Woodman Geoffrey F. , Itthipuripat Sirawaj
Published: November 2023

In primates, foveal and peripheral vision have distinct neural architectures and functions. However, it has been debated if selective attention operates via the same or different neural mechanisms across eccentricities. We tested these alternative accounts by examining the effects of selective attention on the steady-state visually evoked potential (SSVEP) and the fronto-parietal signal measured via EEG from human subjects performing a sustained visuospatial attention task. With a negligible level of eye movements, both SSVEP and SND exhibited the heterogeneous patterns of attentional modulations across eccentricities. Specifically, the attentional modulations of these signals peaked at the parafoveal locations and such modulations wore off as visual stimuli appeared closer to the fovea or further away towards the periphery. However, with a relatively higher level of eye movements, the heterogeneous patterns of attentional modulations of these neural signals were less robust. These data demonstrate that the top-down influence of covert visuospatial attention on early sensory processing in human cortex depends on eccentricity and the level of saccadic responses. Taken together, the results suggest that sustained visuospatial attention operates differently across different eccentric locations, providing new understanding of how attention augments sensory representations regardless of where the attended stimulus appears.
Neural basis responsible for emotion regulation association with procrastination: Right dlPFC functional connectivity with left insula
Authors: Li Keli , Zhang Rong , Feng Tingyong
Published: November 2023

Procrastination, an irrational delay of intended action, leads to numerous adverse effects in many life domains, such as low academic performance, poor mental health and financial distress. Previous studies have revealed a substantial negative correlation between emotional regulation and procrastination. However, it still remains unclear about the neural basis for the association between emotion regulation and procrastination. Therefore, we employed the voxel-based morphometry (VBM) and resting-state functional connectivity (RSFC) methods to explore the neural substrates underlying how emotion regulation responsible for procrastination (N = 243). In line with our hypothesis, the results showed a strong negative correlation between emotion regulation and procrastination (r =-0.39). The VBM analysis showed that emotion regulation was positively correlated with gray matter (GM) volumes in the right dorsal-lateral prefrontal cortex (dlPFC). Next, the RSFC results indicated that dlPFC-insula functional connectivity was positively associated with emotion regulation. Furthermore, the mediation analysis showed that emotion regulation mediated the relationship between the dlPFC-insula functional connectivity and procrastination. The current findings suggest that the neural pathway related to cognitive control over aversive emotion may responsible for the close relationship between emotion regulation and procrastination, which provides a novel perspective for explaining the tight association between emotion regulation and procrastination.
Anatomical evaluation of the nasolacrimal groove in 150 dry bones in the Anatolian population
Authors: CHATZIOGLOU Gkionoul NTELI , Önal Vildan , Gayretli Özcan
Published: November 2023

Pupose: In this study, we aimed to evaluate the anatomical features of the nasolacrimal groove in detail by providing a morphological classification based on morphometric evaluations of the nasolacrimal groove. Methods: A total of 150 sagittal dry bones in the Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Istanbul University were evaluated. The length and the width at different points of the nasolacrimal canal were calculated. According to the widths of the nasolacrimal canal 10 different morphological types were revealed. Results: The length of the canal was found as mean 13.62 ± 2.42 mm on the right and 12.44 ± 2.68 mm on the left side. The entrance, the base, the upper and the lower thirds of nasolacrimal canal were 6.22 ± 1.19 mm, 7.95 ± 1.85 mm, 5.85 ± 1.06 mm, 6.60 ± 1.54 mm, on the right and 6.08 ± 1.16 mm, 7.24 ± 1.64 mm, 5.45 ± 1.29 mm, 6.23 ± 1.48 mm, on the left side, respectively. The width of the entrance of the nasolacrimal canal was the narrowest width compared to the base, upper and lower thirds in 7/10 types of 71/150 cranial bones. Conclusion: This comprehensive morphological classification of the nasolacrimal groove sheds new light on its complex variations. We support that the finding of this study has the potential to improve the precision of diagnostic assessments and guide specific therapeutic interventions for patients with lacrimal drainage disorders.
School experiences of Black girls in secondary education
Authors: Meyers Lateasha N , Parker-Holliman Natalie
Published: November 2023

Scholars have recognized that Black girls’ intersectional identities have real material effects on their educational outcomes and well-being. In response, there has been an increase in research that specifically looks at the educational experiences of Black girls. Drawing from Critical Race Feminism (CRF), this systematic literature review looks at the trends and what they reveal about Black girls schooling experiences in secondary education within the past 20 years.
A quantum register using collective excitations in a Bose-Einstein condensate
Authors: Haber Elisha , Chen Zekai , Bigelow Nicholas P.
Published: November 2023

A qubit made up of an ensemble of atoms is attractive due to its resistance to atom losses. In this work, we consider an experimentally feasible protocol to coherently load a spin-dependent optical lattice from a spatially overlapping Bose-Einstein condensate. Identifying each lattice site as a qubit, with an empty or filled site as the qubit basis, we discuss how high-fidelity single-qubit operations, two-qubit gates between arbitrary pairs of qubits, and nondestructive measurements could be performed. In this setup, the effect of atom losses has been mitigated, the atoms never need to be removed from the ground state manifold, and separate storage and computational bases for the qubits are not required, all of which can be significant sources of decoherence in many other types of atomic qubits.
Cultura material y contextualización histórica de un vivac napoleónico asociado a la batalla de Fuentes de Oñoro (3 - 5 de mayo de 1811)
Authors: González García Clemente
Published: November 2023

En 1811 el ejército francés se retiró Portugal dejando aislada la fortaleza de Almeida. Al intentar aprovisionarla con un convoy de víveres se produjo la batalla de Fuentes de Oñoro, en la que tanto ingleses como franceses sufrieron abundantes bajas. Este artículo da a conocer un conjunto singular de materiales metálicos, de origen francés, documentados a unos 10 km del escenario de la lucha. Las fuentes bibliográficas han permitido asociar estos restos con una de las divisiones del IX Cuerpo de Ejército francés, el cual tuvo una intensa participación en dicho episodio bélico.
Investigation of pressure transients induced on a real water service line by user's activity
Authors: Marsili Valentina , Mazzoni Filippo , Alvisi Stefano , Maietta Filomena , Capponi Caterina , Meniconi Silvia , Brunone Bruno , Franchini Marco
Published: November 2023

Recent studies point out that water distribution networks can be affected by long- and short-term pressure oscillations due to the users' activity. However, these transients, generated at the household level, before reaching the water distribution network pass through, and thus affect, the water service line and can contribute to its deterioration. Despite the role of user-induced transients in stressing service lines, few studies in the literature explored the topic, exclusively by means of laboratory tests. The current study is aimed at exploring the effects of user's activity on a real service line starting from the field monitoring of pressure data at 500-Hz temporal resolution. Pressure signals are collected both when activating single water devices of the user supplied by the service line and during the ordinary use of domestic devices. The analyses of the acquired data highlight that the domestic service line is subjected to significant pressure variations (which can reach extreme values of −15 and +65 m) based on the device type and distance between the device and the service line and that the use of these devices can continuously stress the water service line.
Drug Delivery for Ocular Allergy: Current Formulation Design Strategies and
Future Perspectives
Authors: Regu Varaprasada Rao , Swain Ranjit Prasad , Subudhi Bharat Bhusan
Published: November 2023

The incidences of ocular allergy have been growing with the increase in pollution. Because of challenges
in new drug development, there have been efforts to maximize the efficacy of existing drugs through
drug delivery approaches. The effectiveness of drugs in ophthalmic conditions is primarily determined by
permeability across the barrier, corneal retention, and sustained release. Thus, there have been widespread efforts
to optimize these parameters to enhance efficacy through novel formulations. This review aims to analyze
the approaches to drug delivery systems to encourage further research to optimize effectiveness. With this
objective, research on drug delivery aspects of anti-allergy therapeutics was included and analyzed based on
formulation/drug delivery technique, Food and Drug Administration approval limits, residence time, compatibility,
pre-clinical efficacy, and potential for translational application. Conventional eye drops have concerns
such as poor residence time and ocular bioavailability. The novel formulations have the potential to improve
residence and bioavailability. However, the use of preservatives and the lack of regulatory approval for polymers
limit the translational application. The review may assist readers in identifying novel drug delivery strategies
and their limitations for the development of effective ophthalmic formulations for the treatment of ocular
allergy.
Perinatal Exposure to Trace Elements: The Dubious Culprit of Autistic Spectrum Disorder in Children
Authors: Mohan Kriti , Omar Balram Ji , Chacham Swathi , Bharti Ajay
Published: November 2023

:

There is evidence that few trace elements in the environment work as hazardous materials
in terms of their exposure in the perinatal period, causing autistic spectrum disorder (ASD) in
children, and avoiding these exposures in the environment can reduce the number of new cases.
This perspective study provides preliminary evidence to consider a few trace elements as culprits
for ASD. More studies with larger cohorts are needed, but meanwhile, as per available evidence,
exposure to these hazardous materials must be warranted during pregnancy and early stages of
life.
Detection of Abnormality in Coronary Artery Magnetic Resonance Imaging
using Bit Plane Slicing and Deep Learning
Authors: Lam Thuy Le Nhi , Hoang Trong Vo , Trung Hieu Huynh , Bao Pham The
Published: November 2023

Introduction::

This paper presents a novel approach for detecting abnormality in coronary arteries using MRI data in RGB images. The study evaluates the test
accuracy of the weak classifiers and the test accuracy and F1 score of the strong classifier.

Methods::

The method involves separating the image into information planes, including R, G, and B color space, or bit-planes, and training a VGG-like
convolutional neural network model on each plane separately, referred to as a “weak classifier.” The classification results of these planes are
aggregated using a proposed soft voting method, forming a “strong classifier,” with the weights for the aggregation determined by the model's
performance on the training set.

Results::

The results indicate that the strong classifier achieves a test accuracy and F1 score of around 68% to 74% on our private coronary artery dataset.
Moreover, by aggregating the top three highest bit-plane levels in a grayscale image, the accuracy is slightly lower than that of the three color
spaces but requires a significantly smaller CNN model of nearly 4M parameters.

Conclusion::

The potential of bit-planes in reducing model storage costs is suggested. This approach holds promise for improving the detection of abnormalities
in coronary arteries using MRI data.
Investigating the Correlation between Liver Ultrasound pSWE and Portal Vein
Hemodynamics: Preliminary Findings
Authors: Sultan Salahaden R. , Abdeen Rawan
Published: November 2023

Introduction::

Portal vein size and hemodynamics can be altered in patients with portal hypertension. Elastography for liver stiffness has been proposed as a
potential predictor of portal hypertension. However, the relationship between liver stiffness measured using point shear wave elastography (pSWE)
and portal vein diameter and Doppler parameters remains unclear. Therefore, this observational study aimed to investigate the correlation between
liver ultrasound pSWE and portal vein hemodynamics in healthy participants.

Methods::

Twenty-five healthy men with no underlying medical conditions and who were not on regular medications were enrolled in the study. Liver
stiffness, portal vein diameter, and Doppler parameters were measured using ultrasound EPIQ Elite with a curved-array transducer (C5-1 MHz)
equipped with pSWE and Doppler imaging. Real-time pSWE measurements were taken from the liver. Portal vein diameter and Doppler
parameters were measured in a longitudinal view of the extra-hepatic segment. Spearman correlation was used to assess the association between
liver pSWE and portal vein diameter as well as Doppler parameters, with a significance level set at < 0.05.

Results::

There was no significant correlation between liver stiffness and portal vein diameter (p = 0.67) or Doppler parameters, including peak systolic
velocity (p = 0.89), end-diastolic velocity (p = 0.65), and resistive index (p = 0.86).

Conclusion::

Our findings suggest no direct correlation between liver stiffness measured using pSWE and portal vein hemodynamics in healthy adults. Further
studies are warranted to investigate the relationship between liver pSWE and the hemodynamics of portal veins in patients with liver diseases.
A Systems Biology Approach in Fisheries Science
Authors: Thakur Kushal , Sharma Dixit , Chauhan Disha , Mahajan Danish , Choudhary Kanika , Brar Bhavna , Sharma Amit Kumar , Sinha Reshma , Kumar Ranjit , Kumar Sunil , Kumar Rakesh
Published: November 2023

Systems biology is concerned with complex interactions in biological
systems, employing a holistic manner in addition to classical reductionism. Systems
biology uses statistics, computational biology, and mathematical modelling to integrate
and analyse vast data sets to obtain a better knowledge of biology and predict the
behaviour of biological systems. It has gained attention in fisheries because of its
ability to uncover novel processes. It can generate a panorama of events that occur
within fish. In a systems biology approach, data from fish genomics, transcriptomics,
proteomics, and metabolomics are integrated, allowing for a comprehensive
understanding of dynamic systems with varying degrees of biological organisation.
Protein-protein interactions help us understand the systematic mechanisms underlying
overall growth, development, physiology, and disease in fish. Systems biology and
omics techniques are being applied in a variety of fisheries studies such as species
identification, understanding the processes of infection and stress tolerance, fishpathogen interactions, fish disease diagnostics and disease control, the impact of
environmental factors on fish, and determining the fish's response to these,
identification of gene sequences and biomarkers. Except for a few pioneering
applications of system biology to Fisheries, this approach to fisheries research is still in
its infancy stage. Systems biology has the potential to provide solutions to the diverse
issues of fisheries.
An introduction to local and global health behaviors using a Collaborative Online International Learning exchange
Authors: Higgins Niamh M. , Smith Lisa B.
Published: November 2023

Collaborative Online International Learning (COIL), uses technology to facilitate the engagement of students from different countries in collaborative coursework and sharing of cultural perspectives. The existing literature concerning COIL exchanges points to the need to further explore student satisfaction and engagement with such exchange projects, and whether course learning outcomes are being achieved. This practice paper describes a COIL exchange between students of health psychology at Mary Immaculate College, Ireland, and Sacred Heart University, in the United States. During this 10-week project students were required to engage in synchronous and asynchronous activities. Following the completion of the COIL project, students were given a questionnaire to assess their course satisfaction and whether learning outcomes were achieved. Findings indicate that students were satisfied with the exchange and learning outcomes were met. Overall, COIL may serve as another teaching approach to help students learn course specific material, understand multicultural viewpoints, and enhance their professional skill set.
The Performance of Marketing and Distribution on Supply Chain of Rice in Merauke Regency, Papua, Indonesia
Authors: Widyantari Ineke Nursih
Published: November 2023

AbstractMerauke is projected to be the rice barn in Eastern part of Indonesia. Many programmes are implemented to improve rice production. This study was conducted to figure out the number of distribution channels for rice marketing, to find out the efficient rice marketing actor, to recognise the smooth flow of product, money, and information on distribution of rice supply chain. The study was carried out in Merauke, i.e., districts of Semangga and Tanah Miring. Rice traders were sampled using the snowball technique, the initial point of farmers with 239 respondents. The results showed that there were four distribution channels of rice in Merauke. The most efficient rice marketing actor was the rice mill selling its product to Bulog partners. The pattern of the distribution of rice supply chain describing the flow of product, money and information was basically smooth, however, there was an unsmooth part in details. Keywords:Distribution, Marketing, Rice, Supply Chain