bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effectiveness and safety of primary prophylaxis of granulocyte colony-stimulating factor during dose-dense chemotherapy for urothelial cancer: Clinical Practice Guidelines for the Use of G-CSF 2022
Authors: Uchino Keita , Tamura Shingo , Kimura Shoji , Shigeta Keisuke , Kimura Takahiro , Ozaki Yukinori , Nishio Hiroshi , Tsuchihashi Kenji , Ichihara Eiki , Endo Makoto , Yano Shingo , Maruyama Dai , Yoshinami Tetsuhiro , Susumu Nobuyuki , Takekuma Munetaka , Motohashi Takashi , Ito Mamoru , Baba Eishi , Ochi Nobuaki , Kubo Toshio , Kamiyama Yutaro , Nakao Shinji , Tamura Shinobu , Nishimoto Hitomi , Kato Yasuhisa , Sato Atsushi , Takano Toshimi , Miura Yuji
Published: January 2024

Granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF) decreases the incidence, duration, and severity of febrile neutropenia (FN); however, dose reduction or withdrawal is often preferred in the management of adverse events in the treatment of urothelial cancer. It is also important to maintain therapeutic intensity in order to control disease progression and thereby relieve symptoms, such as hematuria, infection, bleeding, and pain, as well as to prolong the survival. In this clinical question, we compared treatment with primary prophylactic administration of G-CSF to maintain therapeutic intensity with conventional standard therapy without G-CSF and examined the benefits and risks as major outcomes. A detailed literature search for relevant studies was performed using PubMed, Ichu-shi Web, and Cochrane Library. Data were extracted and evaluated independently by two reviewers. A qualitative analysis of the pooled data was performed, and the risk ratios with corresponding confidence intervals were calculated and summarized in a meta-analysis. Seven studies were included in the qualitative analysis, two of which were reviewed in the meta-analysis of dose-dense methotrexate, vinblastine, doxorubicin, and cisplatin (MVAC) therapy, and one randomized controlled study showed a reduction in the incidence of FN. Primary prophylactic administration of G-CSF may be beneficial, as shown in a randomized controlled study of dose-dense MVAC therapy. However, there are no studies on other regimens, and we made a "weak recommendation to perform" with an annotation of the relevant regimen (dose-dense MVAC).
Divergence and genetic parameters between Melia dubia genotypes based on morpho-anatomical stomatal descriptors
Authors: Samji Aghila , Eashwarlal Komal , Warrier Kannan CS , Kumar Santhosh , Tamilmaran R , Shanthi Krishnan , Warrier Rekha R
Published: January 2024

Stomata, a regulatory system in leaves, aids in identifying plant species to complete taxonomic data. This study investigated the stomatal descriptors of Melia dubia, a potential plywood species to distinguish within variation in the species to explain the diversity and diagnostic significance of these attributes. Twenty clones were selected to investigate nine stomatal characters related to stomatal type, length, width, density, and distribution. The results showed the presence of hypostomatic leaves with anomocytic stomata that falls under the category small. Stomatal clustering, an abnormal stomatal patterning formed by two or more stomata in the epidermis was also observed. The examined data were subjected to a numerical analysis using SPSS and R packages. A significant variation in observed parameters were obtained. Correlation analysis shows that stomatal length, width, and size were significantly correlated to pore length, pore width, pore perimeter and stomatal pore depth. Further hierarchical cluster analysis using average linkage between groups method clustered all the 20 clones into 5 clusters apportioning the variation among clones. Divergence analysis using Mahanalobis distance-based clustering detailed the dissimilarities and differences between the clones. The study highlights the diagnostic potential of stomatal features in identifying variations within the species. This report is the first detailed description of stomatal features in the genus Melia, implying its significant contribution to the knowledge in this area. This study underscores the potential of stomatal features as a diagnostic tool for plant species identification and taxonomic studies.
ScRNA-seq and bulk RNA-seq reveal the characteristics of NK cell and establish a risk signature in bladder cancer
Authors: Xu Tao , Tao Jiayi , Zhang Jinsong , Liu Huiyong , Zhan Zhibin , Lin Mei , Chen Min , Liu Qi , wang bin
Published: January 2024

Bladder cancer poses a significant risk of recurrence and progression to intramuscular disease, also known as non-muscle invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC). Immunotherapy has emerged as a pioneering strategy for managing non-muscle invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC). However, there exist variations in the resistance patterns of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) and the corresponding patient response, thereby necessitating further investigation into novel therapeutic interventions.Several research studies have indicated that the focused metabolism of sulphur dioxide could potentially serve as a substitute for existing approaches to treating bladder cancer. The research was centred on the examination of genetic variations of genes responsible for the metabolism of sulphur dioxide (DRGs) that are linked to bladder cancer. The research revealed that out of the 412 samples analysed, 136 exhibited mutations in DRGs, indicating a mutation rate of 33.01%.The research additionally discovered that duplications or deletions of genomic segments, known as copy number variants (CNV), are prevalent in bladder carcinoma, particularly in relation to dorsal root ganglia (DRGs).The investigation additionally examined the impact of genetic variations on messenger RNA (mRNA) expression. The results indicated a positive correlation between the level of expression of specific genes in bladder cancer tissue and the variation in replicating numbers. The investigation also recognised two types of sulphur dioxide metabolism that are dispersed, and are linked with distinct gene expression patterns and characteristics of immune cell infiltration. The investigation enhanced the examination of genes with differential expression and revealed that the bladder cancer tumour microenvironment was linked to the metabolism of sulphur dioxide, which resulted in varying prognostic outcomes. The investigation additionally formulated a prognostic instrument utilising clinical parameters and risk assessments. The potential of the predictive signature to correlate with the metabolism of sulphur dioxide has implications for the characterization of a patient's immune landscape and the prediction of their prognosis. However, additional research is required to address various concerns, such as the validation of models' accuracy and efficacy, as well as the undertaking of more prospective and fundamental investigations.
Superconductivity of Thulium Substituted Clathrate Hexahydrides at Moderate Pressure
Authors: Huang Hongyu , Deng Chao , Song Hao , Du Mingyang , Duan Defang , Liu Yanhui , Cui Tian
Published: January 2024

Due to the BCS theory, hydrogen, the lightest element, would be the prospect of room-temperature superconductor after metallization, but because of the difficulty of the hydrogen metallization, the theory about hydrogen pre-compression was proposed that the hydrogen-rich compounds could be a great option for the high Tc superconductors. The superior properties of TmH6, YbH6 and LuH6 indicated the magnificent potential of heavy rare earth elements for low-pressure stability. Here, we designed XTmH12 (X = Y, Yb, Lu, and La) to obtain higher Tc while maintaining low pressure stability. Most prominently, YbTmH12 can stable at a pressure of 60 GPa. Compared with binary TmH6 hydride, its Tc was increased to 48 K. The results provide an effective method for the rational design of moderate pressure stabilized hydride superconductors.
An accurate temperature field reconstruction method based on multi-physics decoupling with schlieren imaging
Authors: Wu Jun , Zhang Zhen , Zhu Yuheng , Tang Yuanhong , Guo Runxia , Chen Jiusheng
Published: January 2024

The tail jet field’s temperature distribution of aircraft engines is of great significance to reflect the combustion efficiency and the formation mechanism of pollutants. The traditional temperature sensor measurement method has a series of shortcomings such as single point measurement, destruction of the flow field and poor spatial and temporal resolution, so it is not suitable for the application scenarios of the tail jet temperature field measurement. Schlieren method, as a visual measurement technology of flow field, is an effective method for real-time measurement of flow field parameters, with the characteristics of large measuring range, fast response speed and simple testing equipment. In order to improve the accuracy of the traditional schlieren method, this paper presents a temperature field distribution reconstruction method by decoupling flow velocity and density field, considering the influence of flow field velocity, density and other factors on temperature field. Firstly, the light deflection angle of the schlieren image is obtained by the change of brightness and darkness in the picture, and then the density distribution of the flow field is obtained indirectly. Then, through the schlieren images of continuous frames, the flow velocity distribution is obtained by using the optical flow velocity measurement algorithm. After that, the obtained density and velocity information can be used to calculate the pressure distribution of the flow field. Finally, the temperature distribution of the flow field can be obtained by using the obtained flow velocity, density and pressure information through the numerical calculation of the energy equation. The experimental results show that the maximum deviation of this method is about 5% compared with that of thermocouple measurement. Therefore, the method proposed in this paper can accurately reconstruct the temperature distribution of high temperature and high speed flow field, and effectively expand the application range of schlieren method in the quantitative measurement of flow field.
Study on the effect of H 2 S on the adsorption of CH 4 , N 2 and CO 2 by anthracite
Authors: Gao Dameng , Liang Jiawei , Hong Lin , Zheng Dan
Published: January 2024

In order to study the effect of H2S on gas adsorption in coal seam, the adsorption characteristics of single-component CO2, CH4, N2 and H2S and multi-component H2S mixed with CO2, CH4 and N2 by anthracite were simulated by using the Grand Canonical Ensemble Monte Carlo (GCMC) method. The results show that the adsorption capacity of CO2, CH4, N2 and H2S in anthracite decreases with the increasing of temperature and increases with the increasing of pressure. The adsorption isotherms of CO2, CH4, N2, H2S and different ratios of H2S/CH4, H2S/N2, H2S/CO2 were consistent with the Langmuir equation. The adsorption capacity of H2S and CO2 is significantly higher than that of N2 and CH4. There is competitive adsorption among H2S, CO2, CH4 and N2, and the adsorption capacity of H2S is better than that of CO2, CH4 and N2.
Machine learning as a control strategy for smart upper limb orthosis: a scoping review
Authors: Holanda Ledycnarf J. , Fernandes Ana Paula M. , Netto Severino P. Nunes , Amorim Júlia A. , Matias Aryel M. , Nagem Danilo A. P. , Valentim Ricardo A. M. , Morya Edgard , Lindquist Ana Raquel R.
Published: January 2024

Upper limb (UL) orthoses have long been used in rehabilitation to assist with movement and improve functional outcomes. However, current orthoses often lack the ability to provide individualized and adaptive assistance to each user. Machine learning (ML)-based orthoses may address these limitations by classifying movement patterns using biomedical signals. This review aimed to explore ML-based UL orthoses by describing the features, algorithms, and benefits from the data collected in articles and patents. We conducted a scoping review using multiple databases (PubMed, Web of Science, SciELO, Koreamed, AMED, CENTRAL, PEDro, IEEE Xplore, Scopus, and Arxiv), and patents websites (Patentscope, Patentlens, Google Patents Kripis, and J-platpat), and reference lists were reviewed to identify additional studies. Following the screening, the authors conducted data extraction (algorithm used, physical description of the orthosis, control system characteristics, and usability test performed); and the risk of bias (RoB) assessment, through prediction model study risk of bias assessment tool (PROBAST). Our review included 16 articles and 4 patents that met our inclusion criteria. Orthoses controlled by ML tools presented different features in the distinct aspects considered in this review. Regression models and surface electromyography signals were the most common approach in articles and patents. Unclear and high RoB data were identified in studies assessed through PROBAST. Our findings suggest ML-controlled orthoses provide benefits to UL movement. Nevertheless, larger and methodologically sounder studies should be conducted to assess the benefits of these devices.
Effectiveness of a Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)-based intervention for reducing anxiety among adolescents in the Colombo District, Sri Lanka: Cluster randomized controlled trial
Authors: De Silva Sinha , Peris Renuka , Senaviratne Sudharshi , Samaranayaka Dulani
Published: January 2024

Anxiety disorders are found to be the most prevalent psychological problems among children and adolescents. Cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT) was found to be effective at reducing anxiety. The purpose of this study was to assess the effectiveness of a universal school-based intervention for reducing anxiety among Grade 9 schoolchildren. A randomized controlled cluster trial was conducted by randomly assigning 36 schools in the Colombo district in Sri Lanka into study and control arms, each comprising 18 schools with 360 students. The levels of anxiety, self-esteem and depression status were assessed using the validated Screen for Child Anxiety Related Disorders (SCARED) tool and the Rosenberg self-esteem scale, respectively, and the Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale 21 (DASS-21) at baseline, after intervention, and after 3 months. A CBT-based universal intervention package was administered weekly by a trained teacher for eight weeks with a one-month self-practice period to a randomly selected Grade 9 class in each school in the study arm. The control arm received routine care. Anxiety and self-esteem scores and depression status were compared between the two arms after the intervention and at 3 months of follow-up using the generalized estimation equation (GEE), controlling for confounding and clustering. The nonresponse and loss to follow-up rates were < 1%. When comparing the study arm with the control arm using GEE, anxiety levels were significantly lower (β = 0.024, 95% CI = 0.055 − 0.006, p = 0.115) but not postintervention (β = 0.024, 95% CI = 0.055 − 0.006, p = 0.115). There were no significant differences in depression status after intervention (OR = 0.256, 95% CI 0.052–1.286; p = 0.098) or follow-up (OR = 0.42, 95% CI 0.117–1.008; p = 0.052), and self-esteem significantly increased after intervention (β = 0.453, 95% CI = 0.264–1.145; p = 0.2321) but not at follow-up. This study revealed that the universal package based on CBT is effective at reducing anxiety and improving self-esteem among adolescents. The trial registration number and date were SLCTR/2018/018 and 19th of June 2018 respectively.
Evaluation of left ventricular blood flow kinetic energy in patients with acute myocardial infarction by 4D flow MRI: a preliminary study
Authors: Niu Xiqing , Dun Yutong , Li Guoce , Zhang Houning , Zhang Bin , Pan Zhibin , Bian Hao , Kang Liqing , Liu Fenghai
Published: January 2024

Purpose: To evaluate the intracavity left ventricular (LV) blood flow kinetic energy (KE) parameters using four-dimensional (4D) flow cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR) in patients with acute myocardial infarction (AMI).
Methods: Thirty AMI patients and twenty controls were examined via CMR, which included cine imaging, late gadolinium enhancement (LGE) and global heart 4D flow imaging. The KE parameters were correlated with the left ventricular end-diastolic volume (LVEDV) to obtain average, minimal, systolic, and diastolic KE as well as the proportion of LV in-plane KE (%). These parameters were compared between the AMI patients and controls and between the two subgroups.
Results: Analysis of the LV blood flow KE parameters at different levels of the LV cavity and in different segments of the same level showed that the basal level had the highest blood flow KE while the apical level had the lowest in the control group. There were significant differences in diastolic, systolic and diastolic in-plane KE between the anterior wall and posterior wall (p>0.05). Compared with those in the control group, the average (10.7±3.3 μJ/mL vs. 14.7±3.6 μJ/mL, p<0.001), systolic (14.6±5.1 μJ/mL vs. 18.9±3.9 μJ/mL, p=0.003) and diastolic KE (7.9±2.5 μJ/mLvs. 10.6±3.8 μJ/mL, p=0.018) were significantly lower in the AMI group. The average KE in the infarct segment was lower than that in the noninfarct segment in the AMI group, while the proportion of systolic in-plane KE increased significantly (49.5±18.7 μJ/mL vs. 126.3±50.7 μJ/mL, p<0.001; 61.8%±11.5 vs. 42.9%±14.4, p=0.001).
Conclusion: The 4D flow MRI technique can be used to quantitatively evaluate LV regional haemodynamic parameters. There were differences in the KE parameters of LV blood flow at different levels and in different segments of the same level in healthy people. In AMI patients, the average KE of the infarct segment decreased, while the proportion of systolic in-plane KE significantly increased.
Impact of Preoperative Inflammatory Indices and Postoperative Pneumonia on Postoperative Atrial Fibrillation in Patients with Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Ruan Yingding , Han Jianwei , Yang Aiming , Ding Qingguo , Zhang Ting
Published: January 2024

Background: This study aimed to evaluate the impact of preoperative inflammatory indices and postoperative pneumonia (POP) on postoperative atrial fibrillation (POAF) in non–small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients.
Methods: All consecutive patients who underwent pulmonary resection at our hospital (January 2016-October 2019) were enrolled. Preoperative inflammatory indices, demographic data, surgical details, and postoperative conditions were analyzed. Univariate and multivariate analyses of risk factors associated with POAF were also conducted.
Results: Among the 382 patients included in the study, 32 (8.38%) developed POAF. Approximately 31 patients (96.9%) developed atrial fibrillation within three days after surgery. The POAF group had a significantly greater mean age (68 years) than did the non-POAF group (62 years) (P=0.002). Additionally, compared with non-POAF patients, POAF patients exhibited an increased number of mediastinal lymph nodes (P<0.001) and mediastinal lymph node stations (P<0.001). The POAF group also had a greater intraoperative blood volume (P=0.006), longer surgical duration (P=0.022), greater incidence of POP (P=0.09), and greater drainage volume (P=0.003). TNM stage (P<0.001) and type of lung resection (P=0.049) were also associated with POAF. Compared to those in the non-POAF group, the POAF group had longer postoperative hospital stays (10.54 days vs. 9 days; P=0.001) and longer drainage times (7 days vs. 5 days; P=0.004). Multivariate analysis revealed age, POP grade, and TNM stage as independent predictors of POAF in NSCLC patients.
Conclusion: Preoperative inflammatory indices were not significantly associated with POAF, but age, POP, and TNM stage were identified as independent predictors. Early-stage NSCLC patients may have a greater susceptibility to POAF than early-stage patients, although further validation is needed. Additionally, POAF was linked to a longer postoperative hospital stay.
Technophilia or technophobia: The unified model of the paradox of older adults’ digital learning
Authors: Wang Ya-Ling
Published: January 2024

Background: Previous research investigating technology adoption has emerged prominently; however, little has been done with older adults’ approach-avoidance conflict toward digital learning. To fulfill the need of accumulating older adult learners, the current research comprehensively incorporates all target-specific elements related to the process of digital learning for older adults. Particularly, the unified model highlights barrier factors and offers insights into the nature of their paradoxical hesitation towards technology.
Methods: In this study, a total of 20 older adults (mean age 63.85 and 25% male) were interviewed. Interviews were recorded for thorough analysis. The coding framework guided data analysis to achieve research objectives.
Results: The findings revealed that: (1) social influence was found as older adults’ major precursor of exposure to digital technology; (2) both acceptance and barrier factors emerged regarding older adults’ digital learning; (3) older adults feature paradoxical hesitation towards technology; (4) three types of senior digital learners were identified: tech-native learners; tech-novice learners; tech-rejector learners.
Conclusions: The unified model of the paradox of older adults’ digital learning was created, highlighting barrier factors and offers insights into the nature of their paradoxical hesitation towards technology. This study contributes a reference for elderly digital learning field and serving the accumulated number of older adult learners.
Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Children’s Mental Health in Taiwan: 2021–2022 Two-Year Follow-up Study
Authors: Chien Wei-Hsien , Chang Hsin-Fang , Shia Ben-Chang , Wang Kai-Hsun , Shih Yi-Nuo , Tai Yi-Hsien , Chen Ming-chih
Published: January 2024

Background
According to the most comprehensive mental health report in the past two decades by the World Health Organization, nearly one billion people experienced mental health issues prior to the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. Following its outbreak in 2021, the rates of depression and anxiety increased by 25%, which highlights its impact on mental health at the global scale. This study aims to elucidate the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on children’s mental health and to raise awareness among various stakeholders, including educators and governments.
Methods
To analyze and evaluate the indicators of mental health in children, we used a structured questionnaire that was previously designed with good reliability and validity. We focused on assessing six major categories related to children’s mental health in 2021 and 2022. We collected 1,000 valid responses from parents and their children for in-depth analysis (men: 538; women: 462).
Results
The average total indices of children’s mental health were 66.50 and 63.83 in 2021 and 2022, respectively. The results of the six indices for both years were as follows: “Personal Life”: 68 and 66; “Family Life”: 70 and 70; “Peer Relationship”: 77 and 73; “School Life”: 68 and 68; “Online Social Interaction”: 60 and 55; and “Epidemic Life”: 56 and 51, respectively. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the top three activities of children aside from attending online classes were watching TV (66.0%), browsing the Internet (62.0%), and playing video games (50.7%).
Conclusions
Children reported challenges with online exposure and academic pressure. The COVID-19 pandemic significantly affected their mental health, which impacted learning, socializing, and family dynamics. Specifically, family dynamics and environment emerged as significant influencing factors on the overall well-being of the children during these times. Consequently, collaborative effort among schools, communities, and governments is essential for improving or maintaining the mental health of children.
Trial registration: C110199
Identification of key biomarkers associated with oral squamous cell carcinoma prognosis and immune response
Authors: Wang Yetong , Zhu Xuan , Wu Dan , Zhou Rong , Tan Jin , Zhu Zibing , Zhu Keke
Published: January 2024

Introduction
Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) ranks as the sixth most prevalent malignancy globally, presenting a significant threat to both physical and mental health due to its elevated incidence and metastasis rate. Advancements in understanding and treating OSCC have stagnated over the past three decades. Oral submucous fibrosis (OSF), a chronic inflammatory oral condition, manifests with pale lesions and limited mouth opening. Notably, the onset of OSCC is often observed against the backdrop of OSF, particularly linked to areca nut consumption. The molecular mechanisms underlying this association, however, remain elusive. This study aims to elucidate the shared genetic markers between OSF and OSCC, intending to enhance early tumor diagnosis.
Methods
We retrieved GEO, DAVID, STRING, GEPIA, UALCAN database and visualized them using tools such as GEO2R, Cytoscape, and R packages. We conducted a comprehensive bioinformatics analysis to investigate the associations between prognosis-related hub genes, their prognostic roles, and immune cell infiltration.
Results
161 DEGs were retrieved and a PPI network was constructed and imported into Cytoscape for visualization. We identified nine critical genes: CDK1, DLGAP5, KIF20A, HMMR, NDC80, CDCA3, CENPE, CCNB2, CKAP2. Notably, two of these hub genes, CDK1 and HMMR displayed significantly elevated expression in both OSCC and OSF samples.
Conclusion
In conclusion, nine hub genes were screened out as potential oncogenes of OSCC patients that could help us early detection, early diagnosis, early prevention. CDK1 and HMMR were key biomarkers associated with oral squamous cell carcinoma prognosis and immune response.
Genetic Profiling and Taxonomic Authentication of Indian Phyllanthus (Phyllanthaceae: Phyllantheae) Genus through Molecular Phylogeny, DNA Barcoding, and ITS2 Secondary Structure Predictions: A Comprehensive Analysis
Authors: Raghavendra P , Ganesh Pushpalatha , Chalageri Gururaj , Kannan R , V Babu U
Published: January 2024

Phyllanthus is a genus of plants that are both ecologically and medicinally valuable. This diversity highlights the need for accurate identification in order to support both conservation efforts and medical research. The escalating demand for Phyllanthus-derived herbal products raises concerns regarding market adulteration and misidentification. In response, our study employs DNA barcoding, specifically targeting the internal transcribed spacer 2 (ITS2) region, to authenticate Indian Phyllanthus species. The study underscores the ITS2 region's efficacy in identifying Indian Phyllanthus species, demonstrating substantial advancements in resolving genus relationships compared to prior analyses. To check if our plant DNA matches known ones, we used two tools: NCBI BLASTn and the ITS2 database. The results showed really high similarities, ranging from 98–100%. This helps us understand how closely related our plant is to others in the Phyllanthus family. We deposited the genetic data, particularly DNA sequences, of Phyllanthus plants into the NCBI GenBank repository. The construction of a phylogenetic tree through multiple sequence alignment of the ITS2 gene confirms clustering among Phyllanthus species, illuminating genetic relationships and diversity crucial for conservation. The ribosomal nuclear ITS2 region exhibits notable differences within and between species, validated by DNA barcodes and secondary structure analyses using minimum free energy calculations. This study underscores the effectiveness of ITS2-based DNA barcoding in accurately identifying Phyllanthus species, mitigating adulteration concerns, ensuring product quality, preserving biodiversity, and promoting sustainable utilization of these invaluable plant resources.
The impact of Resveratrol on the outcome of the in vitro fertilization: a pilot randomized controlled trial
Authors: Conforti Alessandro , Iorio Giuseppe Gabriele , Girolamo Raffaella Di , Rovetto Marika Ylenia , Picarelli Silvia , Cariati Federica , Gentile Rosaria , D'Amato Antonio , Gliozheni Orion , Fioretti Bernard , Alviggi Carlo
Published: January 2024

Background
Resveratrol is a natural polyphenolic compound present in plants and red wine with many potential health benefits. This compound has various anti-inflammatory and anti-tumor properties and can improve cellular mitochondrial activity. This pilot trial was designed to evaluate the effect on the outcome of IVF of Resveratrol supplementation in women > 35 years with good ovarian reserve (AMH > 1.2 ng/ml). Women were randomized to receive or placebo or Resveratrol (150 mg twice per day) for three months preceding the ovarian stimulation (OS). All patients were stimulated with a starting dose of recombinant FSH ranging between 150 and 300 IU according to age and ovarian reserve. GnRH antagonist flexible protocol was adopted for pituitary suppression. Triggering was performed with urinary hCG (10.000 IU).
Results
The study was conducted between January 2019 and December 2022 with aa total of 37 cases and 33 controls were recruited. A statistically significant increase in the follicle output rate (FORT) and follicle-to oocyte index (FOI) in women treated with resveratrol was observed compared with control group (0.92 versus 0.77 [p = 0.02], and 0.77 versus 0.64 [p = 0.006], respectively). No statistically significant differences in the number of oocytes retrieved, biochemical pregnancy, clinical pregnancy and live birth rates were observed between groups.
Conclusions
Preliminary results from this study indicate that pre-treatment with resveratrol may improve ovarian sensitivity to exogenous FSH, which in turn may decrease the risk of hypo-response to OS.
Management of Bladder Injury During Caesarean Delivery and Long-Term Results
Authors: Tunçekin Adem , Yalçın Mehmet Yiğit
Published: January 2024

Purpose: The urinary bladder injury after cesarean delivery is rare but significant. This study aims to evaluate the management of bladder injuries after cesarean section and long-term postoperative results.
Methods: Our study included 67 patients who had bladder injuries after cesarean section and underwent repair. Patients with non-bladder genitourinary organ injuries and/or injuries other than those associated with cesarean delivery were excluded. The patients’ demographic records and pre- and postoperative data were evaluated retrospectively.
Results: Between September 2018 and February 2023, 123,296 pregnant women were admitted to our hospital for birth; 46,786 (38%) cesarean deliveries occurred, and 67 patients suffered bladder injuries (0.14%). Diagnosis was made intraoperatively in 58 patients and postoperatively in 9 patients. The average age of the patients was 33,8 years and the average number of cesarean sections the patients had undergone was 3,2. The average bladder defect size was 4,4 cm, and they were most frequently observed in the bladder dome. When evaluated in the early period (first month postpartum) and late period (after the first month), lower urinary tract symptoms were observed in a total of 16 patients, and the most common symptom was dysuria.
Conclusions: Bladder injury during cesarean delivery is a rare but serious condition. When bladder injury is suspected, diagnosis and treatment should be done promptly to minimize complications. Our study draws attention to this topic, and prospective studies with larger populations and longer follow-up periods are needed to obtain more conclusive results.
Use of a Needle Probe to Measure the Thermal Conductivity of Electrically Conductive Liquids at High Temperatures
Authors: Ruth Ryan , Merritt Brian , Munro Troy
Published: January 2024

This paper considers the necessary conditions for using a derivative of a transient hot wire (termed a needle probe) approach to measure electrically conducting fluids at high temperatures, especially molten halide salts. The focus is on the development of a new theory based on a multi-layer system necessary to ensure electrical isolation of electrical wires from the surrounding fluid. This includes the use of a thin annulus of fluid to minimize convective heat transfer modes within the fluid of interest, which was inspired by the concentric cylinder method. Good measurements require the following considerations: concentricity of the probe and surrounding crucible to ensure a consistent fluid gap, accounting for corrections for deviation of the model at early times, and modeling radiation heat transfer through transparent fluids. Uncertainties are larger than transient hot wire methods because of the deviations from experimental conditions that can easily match an analytical approximation. An appropriate estimation of the measurement uncertainty can be obtained through careful design of the instrumentation, thorough uncertainty analysis, and limiting the measurements to only the applicable thermal property ranges of the approach. The 1D model used to interpret measured temperature data has been shown to be reliable for thermal conductivity measurements ranging from at least 0.39 W/mK to 0.92 W/mK and for temperatures from 293-1023 K. The approach is used to present thermal conductivity data of the molten salts NaCl-KCl (51-49 mol%) and LiCl-NaCl (28-72 mol%).
Undesirable Woody Establishment is Driven by Herbaceous Cover Phylogenetics and Abiotic Conditions
Authors: Trejo-Pérez Rolando , Chagnon Pierre-Luc , Gervais-Bergeron Béatrice , Boivin Patrick , Brisson Jacques
Published: January 2024

Revegetation with herbaceous covers is widely used to inhibit tree encroachment in managed areas. However, most studies tend to focus on species selection for inclusion in seed mixtures, neglecting the effect of local contingencies such as soil conditions and native vegetation emerging from the seed bank. Here, we tested the joint effect of sown herbaceous mixtures and local site conditions on the encroachment of undesirable woody species. In a recently cleared right-of-way, we sowed mixtures containing either 3, 5, or 8 species. Over two consecutive years, we allowed spontaneous vegetation to be established. We measured three facets of its diversity: taxonomic, functional and phylogenetic. We also evaluated how woody encroachment was spatially structured and influenced by soil physico-chemical properties. Our study illustrates how successful revegetation strategies for inhibiting tree species should account for both mixture effectiveness in ideal conditions and their ecological versatility (i.e., their ability to regenerate and thrive in various soil types and climatic conditions). The inhibition of woody species also involved multiple mechanisms, with phylogenetic diversity metrics being the dominant predictors of tree encroachment in the first year. However, the significance of abiotic mechanisms intensified in the second year. This temporal shift added complexity to identifying the most effective vegetation management strategies for inhibiting invasive and undesirable species. Hence, an effective prevention of woody species establishment on bare soil sites linked to infrastructure projects necessitates a multifaceted strategy, incorporating not only sown diversity but also a comprehensive understanding of soil properties and resident vegetation diversity.
Photogrammetry Scans for Neuroanatomy Education - a New Multi-Camera System: Technical Note
Authors: Oliveira André de Sá Braga , Leonel Luciano César P. C. , Bauman Megan M.J. , Bonis Alessandro , LaHood Edward R. , Graepel Stephen , Link Michael J. , Pinheiro-Neto Carlos D. , Lachman Nirusha , Morris Jonathan M. , Peris-Celda Maria
Published: January 2024

Photogrammetry scans has directed attention to the development of advanced camera systems to improve the creation of three-dimensional (3D) models, especially for educational and medical-related purposes. This could be a potential cost-effective method for neuroanatomy education, especially when access to laboratory-based learning is limited. The aim of this study was to describe a new photogrammetry system based on a 5 Digital Single-Lens Reflex (DSLR) cameras setup to optimize accuracy of neuroanatomical 3D models. One formalin-fixed brain and specimen and one dry skull were used for dissections and scanning using the photogrammetry technique. After each dissection, the specimens were placed inside a new MedCreator® scanner (MedReality, Thyng, Chicago, IL) to be scanned with the final 3D model being displayed on SketchFab® (Epic, Cary, NC) and MedReality® platforms. The scanner consisted of 5 cameras arranged vertically facing the specimen, which was positioned on a platform in the center of the scanner. The new multi-camera system contains automated software packages, which allowed for quick rendering and creation of a high-quality 3D models. Following uploading the 3D models to the SketchFab® and MedReality® platforms for display, the models can be freely manipulated in various angles and magnifications in any devices free of charge for users. Therefore, photogrammetry scans with this new multi-camera system have the potential to enhance the accuracy and resolution of the 3D models, along with shortening creation time of the models. This system can serve as an important tool to optimize neuroanatomy education and ultimately, improve patient outcomes.
Influence of roughness-generated streaks on laminar separation bubbles
Authors: Jaroslawski Tomek , Vermeersch Olivier , Forte Maxime , Moschetta Jean-Marc , Gowree Erwin
Published: January 2024

This experimental investigation studies the impact of streaks on two-dimensional laminar separation bubbles forming over an aerofoil. Streaks are introduced into the boundary layer using cylindrical roughness elements, and the resulting mean and unsteady flow fields are measured using hot-wire anemometry. The observed streaks generated by roughness exhibit analogous behavior to those generated by freestream turbulence, significantly altering the mean-flow characteristics of the bubble, including reductions in its length, height, and the introduction of spanwise velocity gradients. These mean flow modifications have a damping effect on convective disturbance growth. The experiments suggest the coexistence of modal instability due to the laminar separation bubble and non-modal instability due to streaks. We perform linear stability analysis at the fore position of the laminar separation bubble and find that by incorporating a spanwise wavenumber into the calculations, the experimental findings are reasonably modeled, indicating an oblique modal instability. To investigate the combined effect of roughness and the presence of freestream turbulence, we increase the turbulence level from the baseline in the presence of a roughness forcing configuration. We find that increasing the turbulence intensity leads to an enhancement of non-modal instability, accompanied by distinctive chordwise disturbance growth compared to lower freestream turbulence intensity levels. Moreover, increasing the turbulence intensity level in the presence of roughness not only bypasses the modal instability observed without the addition of turbulence but also suppresses laminar separation.
Probing Sequence-Structure Paradigms in Complex Carbohydrates – A Case Study on Rhamnogalacturonan-II
Authors: Bharadwaj Vivek , Koj Sabina , Bu Lintao , Crowley Michael , Sharma Deepak , Urbanowicz Breeanna , O'Neill Malcolm , Pena Maria
Published: January 2024

Polysaccharides are a class of important biomolecules whose structure and function are dictated by the specific sequence of, and linkage between individual constituent carbohydrate residues. Rhamnogalacturonan-II (RG-II) is the most complex polysaccharide known in Nature and plays an indispensable role in the growth and development of all vascular plants. RG-II is characterized by the presence of 12 different monosaccharides connected via a multiplicity of glycosidic linkages. The constituent monosaccharide units are arranged into 6 different sidechains along a polygalacturonic-acid backbone connected by α-1-4 linkages. While the side-chain constituent residues are known, their relative locations along the backbone have not yet been resolved. In this study, we grow, isolate, and characterize RG-II from celery cells and use solution-based NMR in concert with molecular dynamics simulations on 8 distinct structural variants to identify and propose the first atomistic 3-D structure of RG-II that best represents the experimental NOE data. We parameterize the forcefields for unique sugars and linkages and employ replica-exchange molecular dynamics to adequately sample the complex conformational landscape for RG-II. Our biophysical approach provides a foundation to establish sequence-structure relationships for RG-II and enable the tools and metrics to relate its structure to its function.
A Hybrid K-means Method based on Modified Rat Swarm Optimization Algorithm for Data Clustering
Authors: Lou Taishan , Guan Guanguang , Yue Zhepeng , Wang Yu , Tong Shihao
Published: January 2024

The original K-means clustering algorithm is prone to local optima and sensitive to the initial clustering center, which have a great impact on accuracy and stability of clustering results in practical applications. To overcome this limitation, an innovative K-means clustering method based on modified rat swarm optimization (RSO) algorithm is proposed. A nonlinear convergence factor is introduced into the RSO to adjust convergence speed of different data sets and improve the global search ability. Then, a reverse initial population strategy is adopted to increase population diversity, thus improving the robustness of the algorithm to the initial conditions. The modified RSO algorithm is used to find the initial optimal cluster centroid, and then K-means algorithm is used to refine the optimized initial cluster centroid to improve the clustering accuracy. The experimental results show that compared with the original K-means clustering algorithm, the improved algorithm has achieved significant improvement in each index of iris, wine and glass datasets, which proves the effectiveness and superiority of the algorithm. This paper presents a new hybrid clustering algorithm which combines the improved swarm intelligent optimization algorithm with K-means clustering algorithm. This method effectively solves the problem that K-means clustering algorithm is sensitive to the initial cluster center. In this study, a novel optimization algorithm improvement strategy, namely reverse elite population strategy and nonlinear convergence factor, is adopted.
Prevalence of Anemia and Associated Factors Among Women of Reproductive Age Attending ART in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
Authors: Ahmed Sindew
Published: January 2024

Background
Anaemia in women of reproductive age caused by human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is a double burden and has negative consequences on newborns. Anaemia is a public health problem, and there is little insight into the factors associated with anaemia among women of reproductive age who live with HIV in developing countries. Hence, this study aimed to assess the prevalence of anaemia and associated factors among women of reproductive age attending assisted therapy (ART) clinics in selected public hospitals in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
Materials and Methods
A cross-sectional study was conducted from June 7, 2021, to August 23, 2021, in six public hospitals in Addis Ababa. A simple random sampling technique was used to select 239 study participants. The data were collected using a checklist and interview. The data were subsequently entered into the EPI-data manager database and exported to SPSS 20 for analysis. Bivariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were also performed. The odds ratio (OR) with 95% CI was retrieved, and a p value < 0.05 was considered to indicate statistical significance.
Results
The overall incidence of anaemia was 23% [95% CI (18.5–28.4)], which was significantly associated with a current CD4 count < 500 cells/mm3 (AOR = 1.5, 95% CI = 0.05, 0.44); middle age (AOR = 6.73, 95% CI = 1.86–24.44); duration of ART < 5 years (AOR = 0.05, 95% CI = 0.0-0.38); opportunistic infection (AOR = 0.11, 95% CI = 0.02-052); marital status (AOR = 0.007, 95% CI = 0.001–0.06); and occupation (no job) status (AOR = 10.85, 95% CI = 2.74–42.9).
Conclusion
The overall incidence of anaemia in the study area was moderate. Age, marital status, occupation, current CD4 count, opportunistic infection status, and duration of ART were factors significantly associated with anaemia. Thus, early diagnosis and treatment of anaemia and coinfections are essential.
Sex-dependent effects of chronic intermittent hypoxia: Implication for obstructive sleep apnea
Authors: Mabry Steve , Bradshaw Jessica L. , Gardner Jennifer J. , Wilson E. Nicole , Cunningham Rebecca
Published: January 2024

Background
Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) affects 10–26% of adults in the United States with known sex differences in prevalence and severity. OSA is characterized by elevated inflammation, oxidative stress (OS), and cognitive dysfunction. However, there is a paucity of data regarding the role of sex in the OSA phenotype. Prior findings suggest women exhibit different OSA phenotypes than men, which could result in under-reported OSA prevalence in women. To examine the relationship between OSA and sex, we used chronic intermittent hypoxia (CIH) to model OSA in rats. We hypothesized that CIH would produce sex-dependent phenotypes of inflammation, OS, and cognitive dysfunction, and these sex differences would be dependent on mitochondrial oxidative stress (mtOS).
Methods
Adult male and female Sprague Dawley rats were exposed to CIH or normoxia for 14 days to examine the impact of sex on CIH-associated circulating inflammation (IL-1β, IL-4, IL-6, IL-10, TNF-α), circulating OS, and behavior (recollective and spatial memory; gross and fine motor function; anxiety-like behaviors; and compulsive behaviors). A subset of rats was implanted with osmotic minipumps containing either a mitochondria-targeting antioxidant (MitoTEMPOL) or saline vehicle 1 week prior to CIH initiation to examine how inhibiting mtOS would affect the CIH phenotype.
Results
Sex-specific differences in CIH-induced inflammation, OS, motor function, and compulsive behavior were observed. In female rats, CIH increased inflammation (plasma IL-6 and IL-6/IL-10 ratio) and impaired fine motor function. Conversely, CIH elevated circulating OS and compulsivity in males. These sex-dependent effects of CIH were blocked by inhibiting mtOS. Interestingly, CIH impaired recollective memory in both sexes but these effects were not mediated by mtOS. No effects of CIH were observed on spatial memory, gross motor function, or anxiety-like behavior, regardless of sex.
Conclusions
Our results indicate that the impact of CIH is dependent on sex, such as an inflammatory response and OS response in females and males, respectively, that are mediated by mtOS. Interestingly, there was no effect of sex or mtOS in CIH-induced impairment of recollective memory. These results indicate that mtOS is involved in the sex differences observed in CIH, but a different mechanism underlies CIH-induced memory impairments.