bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Protective effect of recombinant interleukin-10 on newborn rat lungs exposed to short-term sublethal hyperoxia
Authors: Lee Hyeon-Soo , Ryu Young-Joon , Lee Min-Jae
Published: September 2024

Background: Lung injury imposed by hyperoxia is the main cause of bronchopulmonary dysplasia in newborns. These injuries are generated from the early stage of hyperoxia through the main biologic effects of cell death and inflammatory response. Interleukin (IL)-10 is a potent anti-inflammatory cytokine that may have the inhibitory effects on these biologic actions induced by hyperoxia.Purpose: Based on our former in vitro studies investigating the effect of recombinant IL-10 (rIL-10) on protecting cultured alveolar type II cells exposed to short-term hyperoxia, we performed the in vivo study to investigate the effect of rIL-10 in newborn rats aged P4 exposed to hyperoxia.Methods: Rats were classified into 3 groups; the control group exposed to normoxia for 24 hours; the hyperoxia group exposed to 65% hyperoxia for 24 hours; and the IL10 group treated with intratracheal instillation of rIL-10 prior to exposure to 65% hyperoxia for 24 hours. Following each treatment, the rats were euthanized. Individual lobes of the right lung were prepared for hematoxyling and eosin (H&E) staining and immunohistochemical staining for thyroid transcription factor-1 (TTF1). Bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) was performed in the left lung to analyze cell counts and cytokines.Results: The IL10 group showed preserved air spaces similar to the control group, with decreased cellularity compared to the hyperoxia group, whereas the hyperoxia group showed markedly reduced air spaces with increased cellularity compared to the IL10 group. And, the IL10 group showed more TTF1-positive cells, which represented alveolar type II cells, compared to the hyperoxia group. Inflammatory cells, such as neutrophils and lymphocytes and proinflammatory cytokines of tumor necrosis factor-α, IL-1α, IL-8, and macrophage inflammatory protein-1α were significantly lower in BAL fluid of the IL10 group compared to the hyperoxia group.Conclusion: These results indicate that rIL-10 may be a promising pharmaceutical measure for protecting newborn lungs from injury induced at the early stage of hyper oxia.
Regional variation in leatherback dive behavior in the northwest Atlantic
Authors: Rider MJ , Avens L , Haas HL , Harms CA , Patel SH , Snodgrass D , Sasso CR
Published: September 2024

Understanding the movement patterns and behaviors of a migratory species across all stages of migration is critical to informing successful conservation management strategies. While the movement patterns of northwestern Atlantic leatherbacks Dermochelys coriacea have been widely studied, there is still a need to understand area-specific behaviors. We collected and analyzed dive data from 52 satellite-tagged leatherbacks that inhabited documented or proposed foraging areas: the northeastern Gulf of Mexico (NEGOM), the Mid-Atlantic Bight (MAB), and southern New England (SNE). We fit generalized linear mixed models (GLMMs) to these data to determine area-specific dive metrics and their relationship to several environmental variables. The most notable result from the GLMMs revealed area-specific relationships between dive behavior and sea surface temperature (SST). As SST increased, leatherbacks in the NEGOM and MAB were observed to increase their surface duration and decrease dive duration, while the opposite trend was observed off SNE. Additionally, leatherbacks in the NEGOM performed more deep dives to cooler waters with rising SSTs. Our results suggest that leatherbacks in the NEGOM are performing thermoregulatory dive behavior that may reduce time available for feeding, potentially inhibiting foraging success relative to the MAB and SNE. These findings offer a deeper comprehension of leatherback movement ecology in each area, provide critical information needed for population assessments and management, and highlight areas of conservation concern in a warming climate.
Coral performance is comparable when transplanted to disparate reef sites despite divergent histories of reef decline and recovery
Authors: Clements CS , Ladd MC , Gallagher JP , Hay ME
Published: September 2024

As coral reefs degrade worldwide, researchers and managers need to determine whether corals can acclimatize to altered local conditions or whether their fixed phenotypes prevent coral persistence under these new environmental conditions. Fixed phenotypes could produce environmental mismatches that reduce population connectivity and exacerbate decline in the near-term, but a capacity for acclimatization could be harnessed in both passive and proactive coral restoration efforts. Here, we conducted a reciprocal transplant experiment in Mo‘orea, French Polynesia, to test how intraspecific performance of 2 common coral species (Acropora hyacinthus and Pocillopora verrucosa) varied between a neighboring forereef and backreef that differed dramatically in trajectories of coral loss, resilience over decadal time scales, and cover of corals versus competing macroalgae. We also tested how corals responded to 2 common stressors—corallivory and macroalgal competition—and how this varied as a function of transplant location and the area of origin. Growth and survival of both coral species were affected by macroalgal competition, corallivory, transplant location, or some combination thereof, but we found limited evidence that the habitat of origin significantly impacted intraspecific performance. These results suggest that acclimatization capacity may outweigh local adaptation for these common reef-building species and could be leveraged to facilitate coral restoration.
A Rare Emergency Diagnosis: Pancreatic ductal rupture
Authors: Saral Öztürk Zeynep , Akkan Sedat
Published: September 2024

Chronic pancreatitis is a condition that results from episodes of acute pancreatitis. It is difficult to diagnose chronic pancreatitis in the early stages and to recognize complications. Recognizing duct rupture, one of the complications of chronic pancreatitis, is important for initiating treatment. A 75-year-old woman presented to the emergency department with abdominal pain. Amylase and lipase levels were 65 u/L and 75 u/L, respectively. Computed tomography performed in the emergency department revealed ductal rupture and the patient was hospitalized in the gastroenterology service. Treatment included endoscopic examination followed by pancreatic rest, hydration and proton pump inhibitors. Pancreatic duct rupture, which is rarely encountered in the emergency department, should be considered as an alternative diagnosis in patients presenting with abdominal pain and a previous pancreatitis attack.
A GIANT BILATERAL HYDRONEPHROSIS CASE SAVED DESPITE THE PATIENT'S NEGLIGENCE
Authors: Tuna Lale , Güven Oya , Çomaklı Mehmet Tamer , Tepe Muzaffer Savaş
Published: September 2024

Introduction: Hydronephrosis due to nephrolithiasis is common, but giant hydronephrosis is rare in adults. Most of the cases previously identified in the literature are unilateral. In the study, we presented bilateral giant hydronephrosis.
Case Report: A 40-year-old male patient stated that he had stones in both kidneys and took at least 2-3 tablets of various painkillers daily but did not come to urology check-ups due to the pandemic. The examinations detected bilateral giant hydronephrosis, and the parenchyma was severely thinned. The patient underwent bilateral ureterorenoscopic lithotripsy and inserted a double J catheter. Seven liters of fluid were drained from the right and 8 liters from the left. It was determined that the size of both kidneys of the patient, who was followed for two years, decreased by half.
Conclusion: Bilateral giant hydronephrosis cases are rarely seen in the literature. With the findings in this study, we tried to show that damaged both kidneys are not life-threatening, and the COVID-19 pandemic has affected our health directly and indirectly.
PERCEPTIONS OF STAKEHOLDERS ON THE IMPACTS OF COST MANAGEMENT SUCCESS FACTORS ON PUBLIC BUILDING CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS IN THE SAHEL REGION: EVIDENCE FROM YOBE STATE
Authors: Shehu Suleiman
Published: September 2024

The Sahel region is continuously in the spotlight due to issues related to precarious security situations, political instabilities, high refugees and internally displaced persons, and climate change crises. For decades, the activities of various non-state organizations in the region have led to devastating consequences to its built environment. For instance, in Nigeria, a Sahel nation, the cost of damages and destructions to its public infrastructures due to conflicts and climate-related issues in its extreme North-Eastern Sahelian states is estimated at a cost of USD 9.2 billion, while about USD 6 billion is needed for recovery, repairs and reconstruction. It is therefore pertinent that all necessary measures should be taken to reduce tendencies of cost overrun during the implementation. Hence, this study evaluated the perceptions of stakeholders on the impacts of cost management success factors on public building construction projects in the Sahel region. The study is limited in scope to the Anglophone-speaking part of the region with Yobe State, Nigeria as a case study. A descriptive survey was employed to elicit responses, and a structured questionnaire was used to collect data. A convenience sample of 150 samples was distributed to the accessible construction professionals in the study area through a multiple snowball sampling technique point. SPSS version 24.0, a social science statistical tool was used for data analysis. Findings revealed that 62.7% of the stakeholders have encountered cost overrun in a range of 5-25% at most during construction project delivery in the region. In addition, all the success factors assessed have ‘high or moderate’ impacts on public building construction projects. Major findings revealed that the success factors with a ‘Relative Severity Impact’ in a range of 70.85-74.24% on public building construction projects are project planning and monitoring, taking adequate security and climate change measures, project manager’s technical competence, project team technical abilities, and project manager’s previous work experience. Furthermore, the stakeholders were in concordance with their perceptions of the success factors, which was significant. In conclusion, cost overrun is a pertinent issue in the Sahel region. This present study delved more into cost management success factors, which are unique to the built environment devasted with issues related to insecurity and climate change.
EDITORIAL SCOPE: BEYOND RESILIENCE – INDEX FOR THE NEXT-GENERATION OF SEISMIC VULNERABILITY FOR RC STRUCTURE
Authors: Kassem Moustafa Moufid , Mohamed Nazri Fadzli
Published: September 2024

Seismic vulnerability assessment has become an indispensable tool in earthquake engineering, especially for reinforced concrete (RC) structures, which are prevalent in urbanized regions worldwide. In this editorial note, we expand on key contributions from recent papers published in the Journal of Building Engineering and Journal of Earthquake Engineering, merging these insights with findings from the book "Seismic Vulnerability Index Assessment Framework of RC Structures." Together, these works form a cohesive narrative around the development of a more refined and globally applicable Seismic Vulnerability Index (SVI) framework for RC structures.  Moreover, this editorial note discusses the advancements in the seismic vulnerability assessment of RC buildings through the development of an SVI methodology. This methodology uses advanced nonlinear parametric analyses to quantify the seismic vulnerability of RC buildings, contributing significantly to disaster risk reduction efforts. Thus, the contribution lies in developing improved methodologies for assessing seismic vulnerability and quantifying seismic risk, ultimately aiding in enhancing earthquake resilience. This comprehensive framework is globally applicable, adaptable to any geographical region, and suitable for a wide range of structural types and systems.
Projected changes to Arctic shipping routes after stratospheric aerosol deployment in the ARISE-SAI scenarios
Authors: Morrison Ariel L. , Pathak Debanjali , Barnes Elizabeth A. , Hurrell James W.
Published: September 2024

Introduction

Rapid reductions in Arctic sea ice in response to warming have led to increased interest in using the Arctic Ocean for commercial shipping. As the world warms, however, different strategies are being considered to stabilize or reduce surface temperatures in order to prevent critical climate change impacts. One such strategy is stratospheric aerosol injection (SAI), a form of solar climate intervention. Projected changes to Arctic sea ice under SAI with specific regards to shipping have not yet been assessed.

Methods

We compare output from two SAI simulations that have different global mean temperature targets with a non-SAI control simulation to provide the first assessment of Arctic Ocean navigability under potential SAI scenarios.

Results

We find that sea ice concentration and thickness quickly stabilize or increase after SAI deployment. When sea ice thickness stabilizes in response to SAI, the number of days when the Arctic Ocean is navigable remains fairly constant, but increasing sea ice thickness leads to reduced navigability compared to the non-SAI simulation. From 2035-2069, both the Northwest Passage and Northern Sea Route are accessible from July-November in all three simulations, but there are no navigable routes under either SAI scenario from April-June. When the Arctic is navigable, it can take 2-12 days longer to cross the Arctic Ocean in the SAI simulations than in the non-SAI control simulation, and there are large year-to-year variations in travel time.

Discussion

Overall, Arctic shipping may take longer and be more difficult in an SAI vs a non-SAI world because of relatively thicker sea ice, but the degree to which Arctic shipping may change in response to SAI is dependent on the particular climate intervention strategy.
Citizen science in elementary classrooms: a tale of two teachers
Authors: Carrier Sarah J. , Scharen Danielle R. , Hayes Meredith , Smith P. Sean , Bruce Anna , Craven Laura
Published: September 2024

Introduction

Elementary teachers face many challenges when including reform-based science instruction in their classrooms, and some teachers have chosen to enhance their science instruction by introducing students to citizen science (CS) projects. When CS projects are incorporated in formal school settings, students have an opportunity to engage in real-world projects as they collect and make sense of data, yet relatively few CS projects offer substantial guidance for teachers seeking to implement the projects, placing a heavy burden on teacher learning.

Methods

Framed in theory on teacher relationships with curricula, we prepared science standards-aligned educative support materials for two CS projects. We present convergent mixed methods research that examines two teachers’ contrasting approaches to including school-based citizen science (SBCS) in their fifth-grade classrooms, each using support materials for one of the two CS projects. Both are veteran teachers at under-resourced Title 1 (an indicator of the high percentage of the students identified as economically disadvantaged) rural schools in the southeastern United States. We document the teachers’ interpretations and use of SBCS materials for the CS projects with data from classroom observations, instructional logs, teacher interviews, and student focus groups.

Results

One teacher adapted the materials to include scaffolding to position students for success in data collection and analysis. In contrast, the second teacher adapted the SBCS support materials to maintain a teacher-centered approach to instruction, identifying perceptions of students’ limited abilities and limited instructional time as constraining factors.

Discussion

We discuss the intersection of CS projects in formal education and opportunities for engaging students in authentic science data collection, analysis, and sense-making. The two teachers’ stories identify the influences of school context and the need for teacher support to encourage elementary teachers’ use of SBCS instruction to supplement their science instruction.
Gut microbiota and interstitial cystitis: exploring the gut-bladder axis through mendelian randomization, biological annotation and bulk RNA sequencing
Authors: Fu Chaowei , Zhao Yu , Zhou Xiang , Lv Jing , Jin Shengkai , Zhou Yuhua , Liu Fengping , Feng Ninghan
Published: September 2024

Background

Several observational studies have indicated an association between interstitial cystitis and the composition of the gut microbiota; however, the causality and underlying mechanisms remain unclear. Understanding the link between gut microbiota and interstitial cystitis could inform strategies for prevention and treatment.

Methods

A two-sample Mendelian randomization analysis was conducted using published genome-wide association study summary statistics. We employed inverse variance weighted, weighted mode, MR-Egger, weighted median, simple mode, and cML-MA methods to investigate the causal relationship between gut microbiota and interstitial cystitis. Sensitivity analysis was performed to validate the results. Relevant gut microbiota was examined through reverse MR. Single nucleotide polymorphisms were annotated using FUMA to identify genes associated with these genetic variants, thereby revealing potential host gene-microbiota associations in interstitial cystitis patients.

Results

Eight bacterial taxa were identified in our analysis as associated with interstitial cystitis. Among these, Butyricimonas, Coprococcus, Lactobacillales, Lentisphaerae, and Bilophila wadsworthia were positively correlated with interstitial cystitis risk, while taxa such as Desulfovibrio piger, Oscillibacter unclassified and Ruminococcus lactaris exhibited protective effects against interstitial cystitis. The robustness of these associations was confirmed through sensitivity analyses. Reverse MR analysis did not reveal evidence of reverse causality. Single nucleotide polymorphisms were annotated using FUMA and subjected to biological analysis. Seven hub genes (SPTBN1, PSME4, CHAC2, ERLEC1, ASB3, STAT5A, and STAT3) were identified as differentially expressed between interstitial cystitis patients and healthy individuals, representing potential therapeutic targets.

Conclusion

Our two-sample Mendelian randomization study established a causal relationship between gut microbiota and interstitial cystitis. Furthermore, our identification of a host gene-microbiota association offers a new avenue for investigating the potential pathogenesis of interstitial cystitis and suggests avenues for the development of personalized treatment strategies.
Cognitive impairments in autoimmune encephalitis: the role of autoimmune antibodies and oligoclonal bands
Authors: Rozenberg Ayal , Shelly Shahar , Vaknin-Dembinsky Adi , Friedman-Korn Tal , Benoliel-Berman Tal , Spector Polina , Yarovinsky Natalya , Guber Diana , Gutter Kapon Lilach , Wexler Yair , Ganelin-Cohen Esther
Published: September 2024

Introduction

The presence of oligoclonal bands (OCBs) in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) is a pivotal diagnostic marker for multiple sclerosis (MS). These bands play a crucial role in the diagnosis and understanding of a wide array of immune diseases. In this study, we explore the relationship between the cognitive profile of autoimmune encephalitis (AIE) and the presence of OCBs in CSF, with a particular emphasis on NMDA receptor antibodies.

Methods

We studied a cohort of 21 patients across five tertiary centers, segregated into two distinct categories. One group comprised individuals who tested positive only for autoimmune encephalitis antibodies indicative of encephalitis, while the other group included patients whose CSF was positive for both autoimmune encephalitis antibodies and OCBs. Our investigation focused primarily on cognitive functions and behavioral alterations, supplemented by auxiliary diagnostic assessments such as CSF cell count, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and electroencephalogram (EEG) results, evaluated for the two patient groups. To validate our findings, we employed statistical analyses such as Fisher’s exact test with Benjamini-Hochberg correction.

Results

Our study included 21 patients, comprising 14 who were presented with only autoimmune encephalitis antibodies, and 7 who were dual-positive. Among these patients, we focused on those with NMDA receptor antibodies. Of these, five were dual positive, and nine were positive only for NMDA receptor antibodies. The dual-positive NMDA group, with an average age of 27 ± 16.47 years, exhibited significantly higher CSF cell counts (p=0.0487) and more pronounced language and attention deficits (p= 0.0264). MRI and EEG results did not differ significantly between the groups.

Conclusions

Our results point to OCBs as an additional marker of disease severity in AIE, especially in NMDA receptor-antibody positive patients, possibly indicating a broader inflammatory process, as reflected in elevated CSF lymphocytes. Regular testing for OCBs in cases of suspected AIE may aid in disease prognosis and identification of patients more prone to language and attention disorders, improving diagnosis and targeting treatment for these cognitive aspects.
Mendelian randomization suggests causal correlations between inflammatory cytokines and immune cells with mastitis
Authors: Chen Jiaying , Su Ben , Zhang Xinyue , Gao Chao , Ji Yajie , Xue Xiaohong
Published: September 2024

Objectives

Previous studies have reported that immunoinflammatory responses have associations with mastitis. Here, we aimed to further figure out whether circulating inflammatory cytokines and immune cells causally impact mastitis liability.

Methods

The two-sample Mendelian randomization made use of genetic variances of 91 inflammatory cytokines from a large publicly available genome-wide association study (GWAS) containing 14,824 participants, 731 immunophenotypes data from 3,757 individuals as exposures separately, and mastitis from a GWAS summary (1880 cases and 211699 controls of European ancestry) as outcome. The primary analysis applied the inverse-variance weighted (IVW) method to estimate causal influences, with MR-Egger, weighted median, weighted mode and simple mode as supplementary approaches. Heterogeneity and pleiotropy were evaluated by the Cochrane Q test, MR-Egger intercept test, and MR-PRESSO global test.

Results

The results indicated that CX3CL1 may be suggestively relevant to the risk of mastitis (odds ratio, OR = 1.434, 95% CI = 1.142~1.800, p = 0.002). Moreover, three immunophenotypes were identified as having a potential causal link to mastitis (p < 0.05). Significantly, CD28- CD8dim %CD8dim (OR = 1.058, 95% CI = 1.024 ~ 1.093, p = 0.0006) and CD45 on CD33br HLA DR+ (OR = 1.097, 95% CI = 1.039 ~ 1.157, p = 0.0008) were found to induce mastitis possibly. Conversely, CD39+ secreting Treg AC (OR = 0.929, 95% CI = 0.884~ 0.978, p = 0.005) pertained to protective factors of mastitis. Cochran’s Q test and MR-Egger intercept test indicated no significant heterogeneity (p > 0.05) or pleiotropy (p > 0.05), supporting the robustness and reliability of our findings.

Conclusion

Our study adds to current knowledge on the causal roles of inflammatory cytokines and immune cells on mastitis by genetic means, thus guiding future clinical research.
Tracheobronchomegaly associated with tracheobronchopathia osteochondroplastica: a case report
Authors: Li Zhen Hua , Kong Lu-Xia , Zhu Shan , Hu Yi , Gao Shan
Published: September 2024

Tracheobronchomegaly (TBM) is a rare condition characterized by the dilatation of the trachea and bronchi due to severe atrophy of elastic fibers, accompanied by the thinning of the muscularis mucosae and the development of diverticula between cartilaginous rings. The etiology of this condition remains unclear. Tracheobronchopathia osteochondroplastica (TO) is another uncommon airway disease with an unknown etiology. The co-occurrence of these two diseases has not been reported. In this study, we report and discuss a case involving an elderly man with TBM and TO with a history of recurrent pneumonia over the past 6 years.
Differential type I and type III interferon expression profiles in rheumatoid and juvenile idiopathic arthritis
Authors: Malik Anikó E. , Slauenwhite Drew , McAlpine Sarah M. , Hanly John G. , Marshall Jean S. , Dérfalvi Beáta , Issekutz Thomas B.
Published: September 2024

Background

The role of type I and type III interferons (IFNs) in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) is still poorly understood. The objective of this study was to examine the hypothesis that IFN expression profiles in the peripheral blood differ between subsets of arthritic subjects. Multiple type I and type III IFNs were examined in patients with RA and JIA, as well as among subtypes of JIA.

Methods

Treatment-naïve RA and JIA patients were enrolled. Droplet digital PCR was used to measure the expression of type I, II, and III interferons in blood and synovial fluid leukocytes. Dendritic cell subsets were isolated from synovial fluid to examine IFN expression in each subset. Additionally, synovial mononuclear cells and JIA-derived fibroblast-like synoviocytes were stimulated with TNF, IFNγ, and poly(I:C) to examine inducible IFN expression.

Results

The predominant type I IFN gene expressed by blood leukocytes was IFNκ and was significantly lower in RA than JIA and controls. Oligoarticular and psoriatic JIA subgroups showed higher IFNκ expression compared to polyarticular JIA and RA. JIA synovial fluid leukocytes expressed abundant IFNγ and type III IFNs (IFNλ1, IFNλ3), with distinct dendritic cell subset contributions. JIA fibroblast-like synoviocytes produced IFNβ, IFNλ1, and IFNλ2 mRNA upon poly(I:C) stimulation.

Conclusion

This study revealed differences in IFN expression patterns in RA and JIA, with notable differences between JIA subtypes. The expression levels of IFNκ, IFNγ, IFNλ1 and IFNλ3 in JIA suggest specific roles in disease pathology, influenced by disease subtype and joint microenvironment. This study contributes to understanding IFN-mediated mechanisms in arthritis, potentially guiding targeted therapeutic strategies.
Higher triglyceride glucose-waist height ratio index is associated with higher prevalence of gallstone: a population-based study
Authors: Wang Jianjun , Chen Sirui , Chen Xi , Qin Chuan , Hu Junchao , Zeng Xintao , Luo Hua , Yang Pei , Luo Huiwen , Yuan Chuanpeng , Shi Ruizi , Wang Decai
Published: September 2024

Background

The aim of this study is to evaluate the association between triglyceride glucose-waist height ratio (TyG-WHtR) index and the prevalence of gallstone disease (GSD), alongside the age at first gallstone surgery among adult populations within the United States.

Methods

We screened participants using the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES). Logistic regression analysis, generalized additive modeling, smoothed curve fitting, and subgroup analysis were employed to assess the association between the TyG-WHtR index, prevalence of GSD, and the age at initial gallstone surgical intervention.

Results

In this study, 3,728 participants were enrolled, among whom 395 individuals reported a prior history of GSD. The association between the TyG-WHtR index and the prevalence of GSD demonstrated a non-linear, positive association. After adjusting for all potential confounders, for each incremental unit rise in the TyG-WHtR index, there was a 47% escalation in the prevalence of GSD (OR = 1.47, 95% CI: 1.29, 1.68). Subgroup analyses indicated a more pronounced association between the TyG-WHtR index and the prevalence of GSD among individuals aged 20–80 years, females, non-Hispanic white population, non-Hispanic black population, other racial groups, and non-diabetic cohorts. Additionally, this study identified that the TyG-WHtR index may be negatively correlated with age at first surgical treatment of gallstones.

Conclusion

An elevated TyG-WHtR index demonstrates a positive association with the prevalence of GSD. However, more prospective studies are needed to validate our findings.
Association of the oxidative balance score and chronic kidney disease: insights from the national health and nutrition examination survey 2009–2018
Authors: Chen Xinyun , Wu Zheng , Hou Xingyu , Yu Wenhui , Gao Chang , Gou Shenju , Fu Ping
Published: September 2024

Introduction

Oxidative stress plays a pivotal role in the pathogenesis of chronic kidney disease (CKD). The oxidative balance score (OBS) was devised to quantify the overall oxidative state, integrating pro-oxidant and antioxidant influences from both dietary intake and lifestyle practices. The aim of this study was to delve into the relationship between the OBS and CKD within the adult population of the United States.

Methods

Utilizing data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) spanning 2009–2018, we derived the OBS from 16 dietary and four lifestyle factors. We employed weighted multivariate regression to probe the link between OBS and CKD. Additionally, we undertook subgroup analyses and applied Restricted Cubic Spline Regression (RCS) for further data analyses.

Results

This study encompassed 19,444 participants. Logistic regression analysis consistently demonstrated a protective effect of higher OBS on CKD. In Model 3, each unit increase in OBS was associated with a 2% reduction in the risk of CKD (95% CI: 0.97–0.99, p < 0.001) and a 4% reduction in the risk of reduced estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) (95% CI: 0.95–0.98, p < 0.001). The highest OBS quintile (Q4) also showed significant reductions in the risk of CKD (OR: 0.66, 95% CI: 0.53–0.82, p < 0.001) and reduced eGFR (OR: 0.51, 95% CI: 0.37–0.69, p < 0.001) in Model 3. RCS analysis revealed a linear relationship between OBS and CKD. Subgroup analyses indicated significant associations between OBS and CKD in most subgroups, except for those without hypertension or with cardiovascular disease. Additionally, interaction analyses demonstrated that age, hypertension, and diabetes significantly modify the association between OBS and CKD risk.

Conclusion

An elevated OBS, reflecting a predominance of antioxidants, correlates with a diminished CKD risk in the American adult demographic. These insights emphasize the potential influence of oxidative equilibrium on the development of CKD.
Predicting pathological grade of stage I pulmonary adenocarcinoma: a CT radiomics approach
Authors: Huang Xiaoni , Xue Yang , Deng Bing , Chen Jun , Zou Jiani , Tan Huibin , Jiang Yuanliang , Huang Wencai
Published: September 2024

Objectives

To investigate the value of CT radiomics combined with radiological features in predicting pathological grade of stage I invasive pulmonary adenocarcinoma (IPA) based on the International Association for the Study of Lung Cancer (IASLC) new grading system.

Methods

The preoperative CT images and clinical information of 294 patients with stage I IPA were retrospectively analyzed (159 training set; 69 validation set; 66 test set). Referring to the IASLC new grading system, patients were divided into a low/intermediate-grade group and a high-grade group. Radiomic features were selected by using the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO), the logistic regression (LR) classifier was used to establish radiomics model (RM), clinical-radiological features model (CRM) and combined rad-score with radiological features model (CRRM), and visualized CRRM by nomogram. The area under the curve (AUC) of the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve and calibration curve were used to evaluate the performance and fitness of models.

Results

In the training set, RM, CRM, and CRRM achieved AUCs of 0.825 [95% CI (0.735-0.916)], 0.849 [95% CI (0.772-0.925)], and 0.888 [95% CI (0.819-0.957)], respectively. For the validation set, the AUCs were 0.879 [95% CI (0.734-1.000)], 0.888 [95% CI (0.794-0.982)], and 0.922 [95% CI (0.835-1.000)], and for the test set, the AUCs were 0.814 [95% CI (0.674-0.954)], 0.849 [95% CI (0.750-0.948)], and 0.860 [95% CI (0.755-0.964)] for RM, CRM, and CRRM, respectively.

Conclusion

All three models performed well in predicting pathological grade, especially the combined model, showing CT radiomics combined with radiological features had the potential to distinguish the pathological grade of early-stage IPA.
“I'm a bathroom expert”: a qualitative study exploring how students with physical disabilities manage toileting during college
Authors: Okanlami Oluwaferanmi O. , Kreschmer Jodi M. , Gupta Saumya , Lee Allison , Sarma Aruna V. , Streur Courtney S.
Published: September 2024

Introduction

Health care providers caring for youth with physical disabilities encourage them to be as independent as possible, which includes obtaining higher education when feasible. However, little is known about the experiences of higher education students in managing their toileting.

Methods

We performed 1:1 semi-structured interviews with 13 current college students with physical disabilities (4 male, 9 female), of whom six were on a formal bladder and/or bowel management program. Three researchers analyzed all transcripts using constructivist grounded theory procedures.

Results

We identified six themes, including: (1) adherence to prescribed programs, (2) importance of time management, (3) interfering with class, (4) balancing intake and toileting, (5) campus bathroom experiences, and (6) acclimating to new living situations. Students needed strong personal skills in time management, adaptability, and self-advocacy to both manage their toileting needs and engage in academic and social activities. This often took time to develop while in college. They faced barriers such as a lack of private, well-maintained bathrooms.

Conclusions

Health care providers should encourage their patients to develop these personal skills prior to starting college, while colleges need to better support these students through honoring their accommodation needs and ensuring the availability of private, accessible bathrooms.
Protective potential of selected microbial and non-microbial biostimulants against Zymoseptoria tritici leaf blotch in winter wheat as affected by the form of N supply
Authors: Göbel Markus , Dulal Samiksha , Sommer Lea , Weinmann Markus , Mamun Abdullah Al , Ahmed Aneesh , Sujeeth Neerakkal , Mai Karin , Neumann Günter , Müller Torsten , Bradáčová Klára
Published: September 2024

Introduction

The production of high-quality food for the growing world population on the one hand and the reduction of chemical-synthetic pesticides on the other hand represents a major challenge for agriculture worldwide. The effectiveness of a combination of microbial and non-microbial biostimulants (BSs) with various nitrogen (N) forms in pathogen defense is discussed as a promising, but still poorly understood bio-based alternative for crop protection.

Methods

For this reason, nitrate and stabilized ammonium fertilizer both combined with a consortium of Pseudomonas brassicacearum, Bacillus amyloliquefaciens, and Trichoderma harzianum as soil treatment or with a mixture of seaweed extract (Ascophyllum nodosum) together with chitosan-amended micronutrient fertilizer as foliar spray application were compared under controlled greenhouse conditions. Furthermore, a combination of microbial and different non-microbial BSs (seaweed extracts + chitosan) and micronutrients with nitrate or with stabilized ammonium fertilizer was tested under field conditions to improve nutrient availability, promote plant growth, and suppress Zymoseptoria tritici (Zt) in winter wheat.

Results and discussion

While plant-protective effects against Zt by the microbial consortium application could be observed particularly under ammonium fertilization, the application of seaweed extract–chitosan mixture expressed plant defense against Zt more strongly under nitrate fertilization. In the field trial, the combination of microbial consortium with the seaweed extract–chitosan mixture together with micronutrients zinc (Zn) and manganese (Mn) showed positive effects against Zt under ammonium fertilization, associated with increased levels of defense metabolites. Furthermore, the additional input of Zn and copper (Cu) from the chitosan application improved the micronutrient status by minimizing the risk of Zn and Cu deficiency under controlled and field conditions. The use of BSs and the inoculation of Zt did not show any effects on plant growth and yield neither under controlled greenhouse conditions nor in the field. Summarized, microbial and non-microbial BSs separately applied or even combined together as one treatment did not influence plant growth or yield but made a positive contribution to an N form-dependent promotion of pathogen defense.
Variability in pediatric and neonatal organ offering, acceptance and utilization: a survey of Canadian pediatric transplant programs and organ donation organizations
Authors: Lee Laurie A. , Okpere Augustina , Martin Dori-Ann , Mahoney Meagan , James Lee , Avitzur Yaron , Piggott Bailey , Tomlinson Christopher , Urschel Simon , Hamiwka Lorraine
Published: September 2024

Introduction

Solid organ transplantation in children is a lifesaving therapy, however, pediatric organ donation rates remain suboptimal.

Methods

We conducted a cross-sectional survey of Canadian organ donation organizations (ODOs) and pediatric transplant programs (TPs), aiming to describe policies and practices for pediatric organ allocation, acceptance, and utilization in Canada.

Results

Response rates were 82% and 83% respectively for ODOs and transplant programs comprising 7 kidney, 3 heart, 2 lung, 2 liver and 1 intestine programs. All 9 ODOs reported offering pediatric organs following death by neurological criteria (DNC), while 8 reported offering organs following death by circulatory criteria (DCC) for some organs. Variability was found across ODOs and TPs. There was little agreement on both absolute and organ-specific donor exclusion criteria between ODOs. There was further disagreement in organ specific acceptance criteria between ODOs and TPs and between TPs themselves. Notably, despite the development of pediatric donation after DCC guidelines, organs from DCC donors are excluded by many ODOs and TPs.

Discussion

Further variability in pediatric specific training, policies, and allocation guidelines are also documented. Significant areas for improvement in standardization in organ acceptance, offering, and allocation in pediatric donation and transplantation across Canada were identified.
Relationship between rumen microbiota and pregnancy toxemia in ewes
Authors: Chen Jiaxin , Wang Siwei , Yin Xuejiao , Duan Chunhui , Li Jinhui , Liu Yue-qin , Zhang Yingjie
Published: September 2024

Introduction

Pregnancy toxemia (PT) is a nutritional metabolic disease of ewes in late pregnancy. This study aimed to reveal the relationship between rumen microbiota and PT.

Methods

We selected 10 healthy ewes (CON) and 10 pregnancy toxemia ewes (PT) at 135 days of gestation according to the blood β-hydroxybutyrate (BHBA), glucose (Glu) concentrations and clinical symptoms. Blood and rumen fluid were collected before morning feeding to determine serum biochemical indices and rumen fermentation parameters. Total DNA of rumen fluid was extracted and the V3-V4 regions of 16S rRNA were amplified by PCR for high-throughput sequencing.

Results

The results showed that the serum concentrations of Glu, total cholesterol (TC), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), uric acid (UA), creatinine (Cr), acetate, propionate, butyrate, and microbial crude protein (MCP) were decreased (p < 0.05) and the concentrations of BHBA, aspartate aminotransferase (AST), acetate to propionate ratio (A/P), and ammonia nitrogen (NH3-N)were higher (p < 0.05) in PT ewes than those in CON ewes. 16S rRNA analysis showed the differences of β-diversity were observed in rumen microbiota between CON and PT ewes. At the phylum level, the relative abundance of Bacteroidota and Proteobacteria were higher (p < 0.01), while Firmicutes was lower (p < 0.01) in PT ewes. At the genus level, the relative Prevotella, Butyrivibrio, Ruminococcus, Lachnospiraceae_AC2044_group, Lachnospiraceae_XPB1014_group, Lachnospiraceae_ND3007_group, and Oribacterium were lower (p < 0.01) in PT ewes. Meanwhile, the relative abundance of Oribacterium, Butyrivibrio, Ruminococcus, and Lachnospiraceae_AC2044_group were positively correlated (p < 0.01) with Glu, INS, acetate, propionate, and butyrate, and negatively correlated (p < 0.01) with BHBA, P, GC, AST, and A/P.

Discussion

In conclusion, the decrease of Oribacterium, Butyrivibrio, Ruminococcus, and Lachnospiraceae_AC2044_group in the rumen of PT ewes reduced the concentrations of volatile fatty acids (acetate, propionate, and butyrate) and serum Glu, and increased BHBA concentration, indicating that the differences in rumen bacteria genera were related to pregnancy toxemia of ewes.
Multi-Objective Majority–Minority Cellular Automata Algorithm for Global and Engineering Design Optimization
Authors: Seck-Tuoh-Mora Juan Carlos , Hernandez-Hurtado Ulises , Medina-Marín Joselito , Hernández-Romero Norberto , Lizárraga-Mendiola Liliana
Published: September 2024

When dealing with complex models in real situations, many optimization problems require the use of more than one objective function to adequately represent the relevant characteristics of the system under consideration. Multi-objective optimization algorithms that can deal with several objective functions are necessary in order to obtain reasonable results within an adequate processing time. This paper presents the multi-objective version of a recent metaheuristic algorithm that optimizes a single objective function, known as the Majority–minority Cellular Automata Algorithm (MmCAA), inspired by cellular automata operations. The algorithm presented here is known as the Multi-objective Majority–minority Cellular Automata Algorithm (MOMmCAA). The MOMmCAA adds repository management and multi-objective search space density control to complement the performance of the MmCAA and make it capable of optimizing multi-objective problems. To evaluate the performance of the MOMmCAA, results on benchmark test sets (DTLZ, quadratic, and CEC-2020) and real-world engineering design problems were compared against other multi-objective algorithms recognized for their performance (MOLAPO, GS, MOPSO, NSGA-II, and MNMA). The results obtained in this work show that the MOMmCA achieves comparable performance with the other metaheuristic methods, demonstrating its competitiveness for use in multi-objective problems. The MOMmCAA was implemented in MATLAB and its source code can be consulted in GitHub.
Probabilistic Air Traffic Complexity Analysis Considering Prediction Uncertainties in Traffic Scenarios
Authors: Samardžić Kristina , Andraši Petar , Radišić Tomislav , Novak Doris
Published: September 2024

This article presents a methodology for analyzing probabilistic air traffic complexity by integrating prediction uncertainties in convective weather scenarios. With the Performance Review Unit (PRU) model as a base, this method modifies the original framework by incorporating a weather-related complexity indicator. The approach was tested in Austrian airspace using ensemble weather forecasts and historical flight plan data. The results demonstrated that a probabilistic model effectively assesses traffic complexity and captures trends in complexity over time, providing greater reliability in high-complexity sectors. Validation revealed a strong alignment between simulator complexity values and probabilistic complexity, especially in sectors characterized by dense data distributions. In contrast, sectors with more elongated distributions tended to overestimate complexity. Quantitative analysis indicated that the error between the probabilistic mean complexity and the simulator complexity values ranged from 12% to 23%, with higher errors in sectors with lower complexity. This validation confirmed the model’s ability to predict complexity trends, thereby assisting flow manager positions (FMPs) in traffic flow and airspace management. Overall, this study demonstrated that probabilistic complexity assessment provides a deeper understanding of traffic behaviour, facilitating more effective air traffic flow management in uncertain and dynamic conditions.
Optimization of Potato Planter Soil Lifting Device Based on TRIZ Theory
Authors: Zhang Hua , Li Hongling , Sun Wei , Li Hui , Liu Xiaolong , Sun Gang , Lu Yonggang , Chen Yangzhou , Xing Wei
Published: September 2024

Aiming at the problems of low soil cover and serious wear and tear of transmission parts in the soil lifting device of potato planters, this paper carries out innovative optimization design of its key parts based on TRIZ theory. The discrete element model of the soil model and the multi-body dynamic model of the soil lifting device are established, the upper scraping and lower scraping soil lifting devices are simulated respectively through the method of DEM-MBD coupling, and the working mechanism of the soil lifting device is further explored. The simulation results show that the lower scraping type lifting device has a large conveying capacity and a stable flow rate at the soil outlet. The results of the soil tank performance comparison test show that: the improved soil lifting device has a simple structure, large conveying capacity, stable flow rate, and fast flow speed and is not easily congested. It meets the standard requirements of dryland potato seedling strip mulching planting technology on mulching parameters and is of great significance for improving dryland food production on the Loess Plateau.
Agrowellness Goods Distribution in the Light of Sustainability: The Consumer Perspective and the Case of Slovenia’s Eastern Cohesion Region
Authors: Pavić Lazar , Rančić Demir Milica
Published: September 2024

This study explores the distribution of agrowellness products and services from a sustainability perspective, focusing on consumer perceptions in Slovenia’s Eastern Cohesion Region. Utilizing an empirical approach through an online survey, the research assesses how sustainable lifestyle practices influence the frequency of agrowellness goods consumption and their perceived availability. The study employs structural equation modeling (SEM) to test four hypotheses, revealing that sustainable lifestyle practices positively affect the frequency of agrowellness product usage, enhancing the perception of product availability. A critical novel contribution of the research is identifying sociodemographic factors as significant moderators of these relationships, offering more profound insights into consumer behavior. Additionally, the frequency of use mediates the link between a sustainable lifestyle and perceived availability, with gender, age, education, and the place of residence as essential moderators. The findings contribute to theory and practice, offering actionable recommendations for marketing and distribution strategies to enhance the accessibility and appeal of agrowellness products. These insights provide valuable guidance for stakeholders in agriculture, rural development, and wellness tourism, with broader implications for policy development aimed at promoting sustainable lifestyles and supporting rural economies.