bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Systematic Underreporting in Corporate Scope 3 Disclosure
Authors: Li Xinmeng , Katafuchi Yuya , Moran Daniel , Yamada Taiki , Fujii Hidemichi , Kanemoto Keiichiro
Published: October 2024

Scope 3 emissions, which encompass both direct emissions and induced emissions along upstream supply chains, have emerged as an important metric for evaluating corporate responsibility toward climate change. Scope 3 targets are being evaluated as a core element of decarbonization plans in many economically important jurisdictions. Yet robust Scope 3 reporting has been challenging due to varying system boundaries, diverging emission factors used for estimation, and the general absence of compliance audits. To overcome these limitations, and understand the efficacy of voluntary reporting, here we establish a consistent, independent estimate of Scope 3 emissions at the firm level using a new enterprise-level global supply chain database. We find that, collectively, company self-reported Scope 3 emissions may be underestimated by nearly 50%, or 0.75 Gt C, compared to our estimate using a harmonized approach.
Postoperative pain and quality of life assessment after endodontic preparation with rotary and reciprocating endodontic instruments: randomized clinical trial
Authors: Mendes Wallace Vieira , Lima Suellen Nogueira Linares , Azevedo Jacqueline Vitória do Nascimento , Leite Hadda Lyzandra Austríaco , Oliveira Patrícia Santos , Ferreira Meire Coelho , Carvalho Ceci Nunes
Published: October 2024

Background: Post-operative pain is a common complication following endodontic treatment, often caused by acute inflammatory responses in periapical tissues. Several factors contribute to this, including inadequate instrumentation, apical extrusion of debris during canal preparation, and other aspects of the procedure. Advances in technology have led to the development of nickel-titanium (NiTi) instruments, which have shown potential to reduce post-operative discomfort. This study aims to evaluate post-operative pain in patients undergoing endodontic treatment with different NiTi systems.
Method: This randomized clinical trial will include 128 patients aged between 18 and 50 years with a diagnosis of pulp alterations in molars without pain or radiographic lesions requiring endodontic treatment. Patients will be randomly allocated to receive root canal preparation with the rotary ProTaper Ultimate system or the reciprocating single-file Reciproc Blue system. The primary outcome will be the intensity of post-operative pain measured using a numerical rating scale (NRS-10 cm) and a visual analog scale (VAS-0-10 cm) at 6, 12, and 24 hours post-operatively. Secondary outcomes will include spontaneous pain, occlusion sensitivity, and quality of life, assessed through the OHIP-14 questionnaire.
Discussion: Our hypothesis is that there will be no differences in pain performance between the different systems, but there will be improvements in quality of life. The results of this study will provide information on the incidence and intensity of post-operative pain after instrumentation of root canals with different NiTi systems and may help improve outcomes and quality of life for patients.
Trial registration: Brazilian Clinical Trials Registry (REBEC): RBR-10kbw6nx. Registered on April 6, 2024.
Insights into suggested Responsible AI (RAI) practices in real-world settings: A systematic literature review
Authors: Bach Tita Alissa , Kaarstad Magnhild , Solberg Elizabeth , Babic Aleksandar
Published: October 2024

AI-enabled systems have significant societal benefits, but only if they are developed, deployed, and used responsibly. We systematically review 45 empirical studies in real-world settings to identify suggested Responsible AI (RAI)practices to ensure that AI-enabled systems uphold stakeholders' legitimate interests and fundamental rights.
Our findings highlight eleven areas of suggested RAI practices: harm prevention, accountability, fairness and equity, explainability, AI literacy, privacy and security, human-AI calibration, interdisciplinary stakeholder involvement, value creation, RAI governance, and AI deployment effects. Our findings also show that there are more discussions about how RAI is supposed to be practiced than existing RAI practices. Ad hoc implementation of RAI practices in real-world settings is concerning because almost 80% of the AI-enabled systems reported in the 45 included articles are applied in use cases that can be categorised as high-risk settings, and over half are reported in the deployment phase. Our findings also highlight the crucial role of stakeholders in ensuring RAI. Identifying stakeholders into user, non-user, and primary stakeholders can thus help understand the dynamics of the settings where AI-enabled systems are (to be) deployed and guide the implementation of RAI practices.
In conclusion, although there is a consensus that RAI practices are a necessity, their implementation in real-world is still in its early day. The involvement of all relevant stakeholders is irreplaceable in driving and shaping RAI practices. There is a need for more comprehensive and inclusive RAI research to advance RAI practices in real-world settings.
Improvement of YOLOv8 algorithm through integration of Pyramid Vision Transformer architecture
Authors: Dong Zhiqiang , Yang Shu , Xiao Yang
Published: October 2024

Addressing the issue of poor target detection accuracy in complex backgrounds with the YOLOv8s model, this chapter proposes an improved YOLOv8s model that incorporates the Pyramid Vision Transformer (PVT). Specifically, to enhance the feature extraction capabilities of the base module, this paper proposes using PVT in the Backbone stage of YOLOv8s to replace the previous basic convolutional feature extraction blocks. This structure allows the model to process images at different resolution levels, thereby more effectively capturing details and contextual information.
Predictive Modeling of Brain Metastasis in Advanced Lung Adenocarcinoma: A Hybrid Approach Combining Traditional Radiomics and Deep Learning from Thoracic CT Images
Authors: Qie Shuai , Kun Liusu , Shi Hongyun , Liu Ming
Published: October 2024

Purpose: Create a deep learning-based radiomics framework to anticipate prediction models for advanced lung adenocarcinoma with brain metastases. This aims to inform individualized treatment and prognosis, enhancing clinical decisions and patient outcomes.
Methods: Analyzed 404 patients' CT scans from two hospitals. Extracted handcrafted and deep learning features. Developed three models (Rad, DTL, Combined) to predict brain metastasis risk. The Combined model with clinical features formed the DLRN model. Evaluated using DCA and Calibration Curve.
Results: The Combined model outperformed others, with AUCs of 0.978 (training) and 0.833 (validation). When combined with clinical data, DLRN achieved AUCs of 0.979 (training) and 0.837 (validation), with high accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity. DCA showed DLRN's clinical benefit.
Conclusions: Developed and validated DLRN model for precise prediction of brain metastases.
High IL-6/IL-10 ratios indicate sepsis in children with infectious diseases: A retrospective observational study
Authors: Cao Lulu , Ren Yi-Qian , Zhao Li , Wang pengpeng , Zhu xiaodong , Zhu Yueniu
Published: October 2024

Background
The present study aims to investigate the levels of IL-6 and IL-10, and the ratio of IL-6 to IL-10 in children with or without sepsis, in order to explore the roles of these cytokines in pediatric sepsis.
Methods
A retrospective observational study was performed between January 1, 2018, and December 31, 2022. Children with infectious diseases were reviewed and assigned to the sepsis and non-sepsis groups, respectively. Information on the demographics, clinical characteristics, laboratory results on IL-6 and IL-10, and treatments were retrieved from the medical records, and compared between the two groups.
Results
A total of 122 children were analyzed, with 57 and 65 children in the sepsis and non-sepsis groups, respectively. Compared to children in the non-sepsis group, children in the sepsis group had higher IL-6 and IL-10 levels, and IL-6/IL-10 ratios on the first day of hospital admission (p < 0.05). The further multivariate logistic regression analysis confirmed the statistically significant association between the IL-6/IL-10 ratio, and the presence of sepsis.
Conclusions
Sepsis children present with higher IL-6 and IL-10 levels, and IL-6/IL-10 ratios, when compared to non-sepsis children. This can be used to evaluate the disease severity in this children population.
Maternal and infant outcomes of pregnancy after kidney transplantation: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: zhang yan , Zhang Lily , Xia Weicong , Fang Lulu , Zhu Tongwei
Published: October 2024

Purpose
To investigate the effect of postoperative pregnancy on maternal-infant outcomes and transplanted kidney function in kidney transplantation (KT) recipients.
Methods
Our study included 104 KT recipients and 104 non-KT women who delivered at four hospitals affiliated with Zhejiang University School of Medicine from December 2015 to November 2023.
Results
The comparison revealed that most patients recovered normal kidney function within 6 months postpartum. Tacrolimus blood concentration during pregnancy averaged (6.1±1.4) μg/L, increasing to (7.1±2.6) μg/L on the second day after delivery, indicating an upward trend in postpartum concentrations. Compared to the non-KT group, the KT group had higher prevalences of gestational hypertension (33.7% vs. 3.3%), gestational diabetes mellitus (21.2% vs. 17.5%), intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy (5.8% vs. 1.7%), placental abruption was (1.9% vs. 0.8%) preterm birth rate (79.8% vs. 9.2%).
Conclusion
Although pregnancies in KT recipients are considered high-risk, the overall risks are manageable. Strengthening the management of KT recipients with reproductive intent is recommended to improve maternal and infant outcomes.
Comprehensive Analysis of Peripheral Blood Free Amino Acids in MASLD: The Impact of Glycine-Serine-Threonine Metabolism
Authors: Mino Masaaki , Kakazu Eiji , Sano Akitoshi , Tsuruoka Mio , Matsubara Hiroko , Kakisaka Keisuke , Kogure Takayuki , Sekine Katsunori , Aoki Yoshihiko , Imamura Masatoshi , Matsuda Michitaka , Yamazoe Taiji , Mori Taizo , Yoshio Sachiyo , Inoue Jun , Masamune Atsushi , Kanto Tatsuya
Published: October 2024

Little is known about how blood free amino acids (FAAs) change in metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD). This study aims to identify the imbalance of FAAs in MASLD and explore its correction as a potential therapeutic targets. We analyzed plasma FAAs data from 23,036 individuals with steatosis information from a biobank in Japan, and 310 patients with MASLD were enrolled. According to diagnostic criteria for steatotic liver disease (SLD) or cardiometabolic criteria (CC), we divided the subjects into five groups: MASLD, metabolic dysfunction and alcohol-associated liver disease (MetALD), CC-SLD-, CC + SLD-, and CC-SLD+. Twenty FAAs were compared among these groups, and among MASLD patients with pathological information. Among the 20 FAAs, the levels of 16 FAAs increased in CC + SLD- according to the number of matches with CC items associated with insulin resistance (IR). Steatosis enhanced most of these changes but serine (Ser) and threonine (Thr) were unaffected. Glycine (Gly), Ser and Thr were significantly decreased in patients according to steatosis grade. We investigated the association between these FAAs imbalances and pathogenesis using MASLD mouse models. In mice fed high-fat, fructose and cholesterol (FFC) diet, metabolomics and RNA sequencing analyses indicated that abnormality in Gly, Ser, and Thr metabolism in liver was associated with mitochondrial dysfunction and enhanced glycolysis via pyruvate. High-Gly, Ser, and Thr diet ameliorated pathogenesis of MASLD in leptin-deficient mice. Most FAAs increase due to cardiometabolic abnormalities, particularly IR. However, interventions targeting metabolism of Gly, Ser, and Thr have potential to improve MASLD.
Effectiveness of traditional non-carbapenem β-lactams vs. novel β-lactams for the treatment of carbapenem-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Aldardeer Namareq F. , Labban Hatun M. , Alhuthil Raghad T. , Aljahdali Seham H. , Alharbi Moataz H. , Alharbi Reham A. , Musawa Mohammed I. Al , Almalki Abdulrahman A. , Almangour Thamer A.
Published: October 2024

Background
The World Health Organization (WHO) has identified carbapenem-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa (CRPA) as one of the three critical priority pathogens. There is scarce literature evaluating the treatment outcomes in patients with CRPA infections treated with traditional non-carbapenem β-lactam (NCBL) agents. Thus, this study aims to assess the effectiveness of traditional NCBL compared to Noval β-lactam agents (NVL) for treating non-carbapenem β-lactam -susceptible CRPA.
Methods
A single-center retrospective cohort study was conducted between January 2016 and December 2022. The study included adult patients 18 years and older with infection due to CRPA who were treated based on microbiology sensitivity with traditional NCBL or NVL for more than 48 hours. The primary outcome was 30-day mortality.
Results
124 patients were included: 98 (79%) in the NCBL group and 26 (20.9%) in the NVL group. 78 (62.9%) patients were male. The median (interquartile range (IQR)) age of included patients was 64 (45, 77) years. A total of 84 (67.7%) patients were critically ill, with an overall median (IQR) APACHE II score of 18 (13.5, 23). The rates of 30-day mortality in NCBL and NVL groups were 41 (41.8%) and 12 (46.2%), respectively; P = 0.692.
Conclusion
In patients with CRPA infections susceptible to traditional NCBL, there was no statistical significant difference in 30-day mortality among patients who were treated with traditional NCBL compared with NVL. Further studies with larger sample sizes are needed to confirm these findings.
Acquired Ventricular Septal Defect Secondary to Aortic Valve Endocarditis
Authors: Hanson Courtney , Tibesar Maria , Pansegrau Timothy Pansegrau
Published: October 2024

Introduction: Infective endocarditis remains a deadly disease with an in-hospital mortality rate of around 20%. While ventricular septal defects (VSDs) have been linked to an increased risk of infective endocarditis, cases of acquired VSDs resulting from infective endocarditis are not well-documented in the literature. Our report highlights a rare case of acquired VSD that resulted directly from aortic valve endocarditis. Case Presentation: A 57-year-old male presented to an outside hospital with chest pain, shortness of breath, and low-grade fevers for the past seven days. Additionally, poor dentition was noted. Blood cultures detected gram-positive staphylococci and streptococcus anginosus. Due to concern for endocarditis, an order was placed for both a transthoracic echocardiogram (TTE) and transesophageal echocardiogram (TEE). Results showed aortic regurgitation, stenosis, and a mobile growth. The patient was managed with IV antibiotics until transferred. Upon arrival at our facility, TEE revealed a VSD that demonstrated left-to-right flow into the right ventricle. Due to the risk of cardiac decompensation and septic embolization, immediate surgical intervention was necessary. The aorta was opened, and the diseased aortic valve was excised. The necrotic septum was debrided and an acquired VSD the size of a quarter was identified. A pericardial patch was used to repair the VSD. Following debridement a mechanical aortic valve was placed. The patient was taken to ICU in a stable condition. However, several days following the procedure, the patient developed ongoing arrhythmia, and a permanent pacemaker was placed. Conclusions: It has been well-documented in literature that congenital VSDs are associated with an increased incidence of endocarditis. However, only a few cases have been documented where a VSD results directly from aortic valve endocarditis. This is the first recorded case of an adult in the U.S. with native aortic valve gram-positive staphylococci and streptococcus anginosus endocarditis resulting in a large acquired VSD. The condition was successfully diagnosed and treated with surgery. Successful treatment of post-operative arrhythmia with permanent pacemaker placement was achieved- a first for acquired VSD caused by infectious endocarditis.
The relationship between firm-level carbon emissions and credit ratings. A case study involving Listed Companies on the Polish Stock Exchange
Authors: Nehrebecka Natalia
Published: October 2024

In this paper we propose the use of multi-level mixed-effects ordered logit regressions to examine the relationship between firm-level carbon emissions and credit ratings as that pertains to stock companies listed in Poland. A necessary step in the pursuit of the goal was the establishing of a proximate channel transmitting the impact of carbon emissions on credit ratings; while data used related to: (i) carbon emissions, (ii) credit ratings, and (iii) firm-specific accounting and market-based control variables. Relationships between carbon emissions and credit ratings were evidenced by the work, the former displaying a significant inverse relationship with the latter, and a more-pronounced relationship being noted when carbon emissions referred to are indirect as opposed to direct. Where carbon emissions are reduced successfully, businesses enjoy an opportunity to reduce cash-flow uncertainty in such a way as to increase investor confidence. A lack of assurance as regards cash flow can thus be viewed as a channel via which the effect of emissions on credit rating is transmitted.
JEL Classification: Q20, K32, M14, Q51.
Immunotherapy Targeting a Leader Sequence Cathepsin G-Derived Peptide
Authors: Al-Atrash Gheath , shi chunhua , Ze Tian , Yan Jun , Zhang Mao , Sukhumalchandra Pariya , Chang Qing , Yang Guojun , You Junping , Cui Meng , Shi Qing , Kerros Celine , Philips Anne , Qiao Na , Sergeeva Anna , John Lisa St. , He Hong , zha dongxing , Molldrem Jeffrey
Published: October 2024

Myeloid azurophil granules provide a rich source of intracellular leukemia antigens. Cathepsin G (CG) is a serine protease that has higher expression in acute myeloid leukemia (AML) blasts in comparison to normal myeloid progenitors. Based on the unique biology of HLA-A*0201 (HLA-A2), in which presentation of leader sequence (LS)-derived peptides is favored, we focused on the LS-CG-derived peptide CG1 (FLLPTGAEA). We previously detected CG1/HLA-A2 complexes on the surface of primary HLA-A2+ AML blasts and cell lines, and immunity targeting CG1/HLA-A2 in leukemia patients. T cell receptor (TCR)-mimic (m) antibodies are immunotherapeutic antibodies that target peptide-HLA (pHLA) complexes. Here we report on the engineering, preclinical efficacy, and safety evaluation of a novel CG1/HLA-A2-targeting, T cell-engager, bispecific antibody (CG1/A2xCD3). CG1/A2xCD3 showed high binding affinity to CG1/HLA-A2 monomers, CD3-Fc fusion protein, and to AML and T cells, with potent killing of HLA-A2 + primary AML and cell lines in vitro and in vivo. This correlated with both tumor- and CG1/A2xCD3-dependent T cell activation and cytokine secretion. Lastly, CG1/A2xCD3 had no activity against normal bone marrow. Together, these results support the targeting of LS-derived peptides and the continued clinical development of CG1/A2xCD3 in the setting of AML.
A study of the prolonged cholestasis observed in extremely low birth weight infants followed by enterostomy
Authors: Matsukubo Makoto , Sugita Koshiro , Muto Mitsuru , Yano Keisuke , Harumatsu Toshio , Kurimoto Tomonori , Kibe Masaya , Yara Asataro , Ohashi Hiroshi , Yamamoto Tsuyoshi , Hirakawa Eiji , Naito Yoshiki , Nagano Ayaka , Murakami Masakazu , Onishi Shun , Kawano Takafumi , Torikai Motofumi , Tokuhisa Takuya , Ieiri Satoshi
Published: October 2024

Purpose: Cholestatic liver damage is frequently observed in extremely low-birth-weight infants (ELBWIs), followed by enterostomy. We retrospectively investigated the factors related to liver damage.
Methods: ELBWIs who underwent enterostomy at our institution between January 2013 and December 2022 for gastrointestinal disease during the neonatal period were reviewed. Cases presenting with direct bilirubin >2.0 mg/dl for >1 month after enterostomy were designated as the prolonged cholestatic liver (p-CL) group and compared with cases without cholestatic liver damage, the (non-CL )group.
Results: Thirty-nine patients (21 in the p-CL group and 18 in the non-CL group) were included. Survival was significantly lower in the p-CL group (52.4% [11/21] vs. 88.9% [16/18]; p=0.020). Significant differences were found in the birth weight (587.8 g vs. 698.0 g, p=0.040) and small intestinal length to the enterostomy (47.6 cm vs. 72.8 cm, p=0.004). Patients in the non-CL group started enteral feeding and reached >100 ml/kg/day earlier than those in the p-CL group. There was no difference in the incidence of catheter-related bloodstream infections between the two groups(p=0.280).
Conclusion: Modest differences in the birth weight and stoma site level may affect enteral feeding management and subsequently result in prolonged cholestatic liver damage in ELBWIs with high prematurity.
Temporal trends and social inequities in adolescent and young adult mental health disorders in Catalonia, Spain: a 2008-2022 primary care cohort study
Authors: Lozano-Sánchez Ana , Aragonès Enric , López-Jiménez Tomàs , Bennett Matthew , Evangelidou Stella , Francisco Esther , García Myriam , Malgosa Estel , Codern-Bové Núria , Guzmán-Molina Claudia , Jacques-Aviñó Constanza
Published: October 2024

Background: The prevalence of mental health disorders in children, teens, and young adults is rising at an alarming rate. This study aims to explore time trends in the incidence of mental disorders among young people in Catalonia, Spain from 2008 to 2022, focusing on the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic and from the perspective of social inequities.
Methods: A cohort study using primary care records from the SIDIAP database was conducted. It included 2,088,641 individuals aged 10 to 24 years. We examined the incidence of depressive, anxiety, eating, and attention deficit/hyperactivity disorders, stratified by sex, age, deprivation, and nationality.
Results: Anxiety disorders were most prevalent in 2022, with an incidence rate (IR) of 2,537 per 100,000 persons-year (95% CI: 2,503-2,571). Depressive disorders followed with an IR of 471 (95% CI: 458-486), ADHD with an IR of 306 (95% CI: 295-317) and eating disorders with an IR of 249 (95% CI: 239-259). All disorders reflected an increasing trend: depressive disorders (IRR: 2.44, 95% CI: 2.31-2.59), anxiety disorders (IRR: 2.33, 95% CI: 2.27-2.39), ADHD (IRR: 2.33, 95%CI: 2.17-2.50), and eating disorders (IRR: 3.29, 95% CI: 3.01-3.59). A significant increase in incidence was observed after the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic. Significant associations were reported mainly in girls, in 15-18 years and 19-24 years groups, with high and middle socioeconomic deprivation, and Spanish nationality.
Conclusion: The incidence of all studied disorders has steadily increased, reaching unprecedented levels during the pandemic. This increase is not observed uniformly across all axes of social inequity. Understanding these trends is essential for an appropriate healthcare response, while addressing the non-medical determinants, requires action across all sectors of society.
Clustering of hepatitis C infection among family members in Aden, Yemen
Authors: Gubran Ali N. M. , Al-Barq Ali Mohsen Mohammed , Hashem Mohammed Abdulbaset Mohammed , Saleh Noura Ramzy Mohammed , Saleh Abdulsalam Abdullah Mohammed , Mohammed Shaima Rashad Saleh Ali , Zead Wala Salem Saleh Salem Bn , Muswat Fatima Luai Ali Saeed , Bahumaish Arwa Khaled Ali Mohammed , Al-saadi Yousif Fahmi Qasim
Published: October 2024

Background
Hepatitis C infection is one of the most commonly causes of liver diseases such as cirrhosis and liver carcinoma. this study aimed to determine the clustering of HCV infection among family members of HCV positive index cases, and to determine the association between the internal and external risk factors and HCV infection among those members.
Methods
This cross-sectional study was conducted during a period from January to June, 2024. One hundred and seventeen family members belong to 26 index cases were enrolled in this study. Blood samples were collected from all family members, and then sera were separated and tested for antiHCV antibodies by using a commercially available Cobas technique based on ECLIA.
Results
Among 117 family members, the majority 55.6% were females. The clustering of HCV infection among family members was 7.7%. The highest rates were 9.6% among males and11.8% among members who were closely contact with female positive cases, 12.8% in age group 20–29 years and 27.3% among brothers but there were no HCV positive cases were detected among fathers, daughters, husbands. There were significant association between HCV infection and some behaviors of family members such as sharing the same sleeping places, nail clippers and towels with index cases and exposing to cupping (p = 0.0001, 0.002, 0.017 and 0.050) respectively.
Conclusion
The HCV infection among family members in Aden, Yemen was low in comparison with most studies globally. The highest rates were found among males, those in contact with female index cases, in age group 20–29 years, and brothers as relatives, but there were no positive cases among fathers, husbands, daughters and other relatives.
Development of a novel tongue biofilm index using bacterial biofluorescence
Authors: Park Sol , Lee Eun-Song , Kim Areum , Kim Hyo-Jung , Lee Joo-Young , Kim Sang-Kyeom , Jung Hoi-In , Kim Baek-Il
Published: October 2024

Background
Conventional methods for assessing tongue bacterial biofilms have low inter-examiner reliability due to visualization challenges.
Objectives
This study aimed to develop and assess a novel Tongue Biofilm Fluorescence Index (TBFI) for the accurate detection and objective evaluation of the quantitative and qualitative characteristics of tongue biofilms at the chairside.
Methods
Data were collected from 81 elderly individuals (n = 162 images). Qraycam captured white-light and fluorescence images of the dorsal tongue, and two examiners assessed tongue coating (TC) using the TBFI. The TBFI was calculated based on biofilm intensity and coverage (0–2 scale). Inter-examiner agreement (Kappa) was compared with the Winkel's Tongue Coating Index (WTCI) and the Oho's Index. Validity was evaluated through correlations with hydrogen sulfide (H₂S) and methyl mercaptan (CH₃SH) levels.
Results
TBFI demonstrated the highest inter-examiner reliability (TBFI, κ = 0.752; WTCI, κ = 0.317; Oho Index, κ = 0.496), particularly for thickness rating (agreement rate: TBFI, 96.3%; WTCI, 76.5%; Oho Index, 79.6%). H₂S and CH₃SH concentrations showed significant positive correlations with all three indices, with the highest correlation observed between H₂S and TBFI (TBFI, r = 0.369; WTCI, r = 0.304; Oho Index, r = 0.308; p < 0.01). Furthermore, H₂S levels increased significantly with higher TBFI scores (p < 0.0001).
Conclusions
TBFI shows enhanced reliability and validity, supporting its clinical potential.
Possible effect of Allopurinol and risk of dementia: An updated Meta-Analysis
Authors: ALENEZI AHMED , AHMAD MAI , AYYOUB IBRAHIM
Published: October 2024

Background: Allopurinol is frequently prescribed medication for treatment of hyperuricemia and gout, due to its uric acid lowering capacity with inhibition of xanthine oxidase in the body. However, the side effects of long term allopurinol use among gout patients, particularly related to dementia and cognitive health is not well understood.
Aims & Objectives: This meta-analysis based study aimed to provide an updated and robust assessment of relationship among the long term use of allopurinol and risk of dementia.
Methods: The “Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA)" guidelines were followed in this study for screening and selection of research articles. Three electronic databases named PubMed, MEDLINE, and Cochrane library were used for data extraction. The primary outcomes of this study were hazard ratio or odds ratio of association of allopurinol exposure and dementia risk among gout patients. The Newcastle-Ottawa Scale (NOS) was applied for quality assessment of observational studies. The RevMan 5.3 software was used for statistical analysis of data from studies included in this study.
Results: About 650 research articles were extracted from three electronic databases after applying the above-mentioned search strategy and the final number of research articles after applying exclusion criteria was 9. Among 9 included studies, four studies were of low risks, four studies were of moderate risks and one study was high risk. Through nine prospective cohort studies, and 1462 to 1710000 patients, the findings of study reported that that exposure of allopurinol is slightly significant as it triggers the risk of dementia among cases as compared to control [RR: 2.28 (95% Cl 2.00, 2.60)] and heterogeneity reported (df =8, p=1.00, I2=0).
Conclusion: Overall, the findings of our study reported a slightly significant association between allopurinol exposure and an increased risk of dementia. This suggests that long-term use of allopurinol may be associated with a higher risk of developing dementia in patients with gout or hyperuricemia.
Polyethylene glycol plus paraffin vs. Polyethylene glycol alone: Which is more effective in treating pediatric functional constipation? A Randomized controlled clinical trial.
Authors: Bozorgi Sepideh Jame , Sajjadei Nooshin , Hashemi Mojtaba , Kharkeshi Marzieh Mohammadi
Published: October 2024

Background
Pediatric functional constipation is a prevalent issue that causes significant personal and societal burdens. While managing painful defecation is crucial in controlling the vicious cycle of stool withholding and altered rectal physiology, current approaches have addressed stool consistency rather than focusing on this critical outcome.
Aim
We aim to assess if adding paraffin to PEG affects painful defecation and other constipation outcomes in children with chronic functional constipation. Paraffin, with its lubricating mechanism, is hypothesized to improve stool passage and reduce pain during defecation.
Methods
We randomized 148 children with chronic functional constipation to receive either PEG plus paraffin or PEG alone for three months. We assessed painful defecation, number of defecation per week, and stool consistency as primary outcomes at baseline and after the intervention period. Secondary outcomes included nausea and vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and incontinence. We used the t-test, one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA), and repeated measures analysis to compare means in our data, and we used the chi-squared test to compare categorical data between groups. We utilized IBM SPSS Statistics 21 software for data analysis, and a p-value of 0.05 or lower was considered statistically significant. We also calculated effect sizes as mean difference and NNT in addition to their 95% confidence interval using MedCalc.
Results
Our study demonstrates that adding paraffin to PEG significantly improves painful defecation in children with chronic functional constipation. In contrast, it did not considerably impact stool consistency or the number of defecations.
Conclusion
Our findings suggest that paraffin can be a valuable adjunct to PEG in managing painful defecation, a crucial aspect of constipation treatment.
Trial Registration
The trial was registered at the Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials (irct.behdasht.gov.ir/trial/66979) with registration number ID IRCT20141209020258N179 on 01.01.2023.
The association between Vapor Pressure Deficit and arthritis: The evidence from CHARLS
Authors: Ye Shuchao , Ye Damei , Lin Changyi , Lu Dongming , You Xuelan , Xu Chaoyan , Wu Yongyang
Published: October 2024

Objective
To explore the relationship between atmospheric humidity index and arthritis.
Methods
This prospective cohort study uses data from the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (2011–2020) and the first 1 km high-resolution atmospheric humidity index dataset in China. Non-arthritis subjects from 2011 were selected for the study. Atmospheric humidity index was the primary exposure factor, and arthritis incidence was the outcome. A logistic regression risk model and restricted cubic splines (RCS) were used to analyze the relationship between atmospheric humidity index and arthritis. Subgroup analysis was conducted using stratified logistic regression to confirm the stability of the results.
Results
A total of 6,300 without preexisting arthritis were included, during which 1,784 were diagnosed with arthritis over a 10-year follow-up period. Individuals diagnosed with arthritis had lower Vapor Pressure Deficit (VPD) levels in their living environment (5.17 ± 0.83 vs. 5.27 ± 0.83, p < 0.0001) compared to the non-arthritis group. The five logistic regression risk models all show that there is a linear relationship between VPD and arthritis, and even after VPD is classified, this result has not changed. Restricted cubic spline (RCS) analysis indicated no nonlinear relationship between VPD and arthritis incidence (P-nonlinearity > 0.05). Interestingly, we observed that arthritis incidence significantly decreased with higher VPD levels (p < 0.05). Using a VPD median of 5.24 as the cutoff, the relationship was more pronounced in low VPD environments (OR = 0.835 [0.711, 0.980], OR = 0.805 [0.680, 0.953], OR = 0.807 [0.681, 0.956], OR = 0.76 [0.618, 0.934], OR = 0.763 [0.620, 0.938]). The final subgroup analysis indicated a significant interaction between residence and the VPD-arthritis relationship (P < 0.001). In rural populations, higher VPD levels significantly reduced arthritis incidence (OR = 0.787 [0.721, 0.858]).
Conclusion
Increased vapor pressure deficit (VPD) is associated with a lower incidence of new arthritis cases. Rural residents should pay particular attention to weather changes to reduce arthritis risk.
Perampanel reduces seizure frequency in patients with developmental and epileptic encephalopathy for a long term
Authors: Yamagishi Hirokazu , Osaka Hitoshi , Muramatsu Kazuhiro , Kojima Karin , Monden Yukifumi , Mitani Tadahiro , Asakura Yuta , Wakae Keizo , Nagai Kohei , Tajima Toshihiro
Published: October 2024

Seizures in patients with developmental and epileptic encephalopathies (DEEs) are often highly resistant to various antiseizure medications. Perampanel (PER) is a novel antiseizure medication that non-competitively inhibits the α-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazolepropionic acid receptor and is expected to reduce seizure frequency not only for focal seizures and generalized tonic-clonic seizures (GTCS) but also for other seizure types. This study aimed to clarify the long-term therapeutic efficacy and tolerability of PER in patients with DEEs. We analyzed data regarding patients’ background characteristics, medication retention, trends in seizure frequency, and adverse events obtained from 16 patients with DEEs who had been on PER treatment for 60 months. The retention rates were 56.3% and 43.8% at 12 and 60 months, respectively. At 60 months after PER initiation, the rate of patients with > 50% seizure reduction was 38.5%, 38.5%, 36.4%, 60.0%, 40%, and 66.7% among patients with focal seizures, atypical absence seizures, tonic seizures, GTCS, atonic seizures, and myoclonic seizures, respectively. The frequency of adverse events was 75.0%. PER showed long-term efficacy in various seizure types. PER is a promising treatment option for patients with DEEs.
Associations of Weekend Warrior and Other Leisure-time Physical Activity Patterns with the Risk of Insulin Resistance——Evidence from NHANES 2007-2018
Authors: Fang  , Kai
Published: October 2024

Background: Insulin resistance (IR) is a critical precursor to various metabolic disorders, including type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular diseases. This study aims to explore the relationship between weekend warrior (WW) and other LTPA patterns with IR risk among American adults.
Methods: Data from 6 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) cycles (2007-2008 to 2017-2018) were analyzed, with the final sample consisting of 10150 adults. Participants were assessed for IR using 6 indices: HOMA-IR, QUICKI, TyG index, TG/HDL-c, METS-IR, and TyG-BMI. LTPA patterns were determined using self-reported frequency and duration based on the global physical activity questionnaire and then categorized into inactive, insufficiently active, weekend warrior and regularly active. Analyses of variances and Rao-Scott adjusted chi-square tests were employed to compare the characteristics across LTPA patterns, and multivariate weighted logistic regression models were conducted to explore the associations of LTPA patterns and IR risk. Weighted restricted cubic splines were utilized to examine the dose-response associations of LTPA patterns and IR risk.
Results: The final sample included 10150 participants representative for approximately 170.4 million adults, with WW prevalence being 4.66%. Both WW and regularly active adults exhibited lower IR risk compared to inactive participants, and no significant differences in IR risk between weekend warriors and regularly active participants were observed. The relationship between LTPA pattern and IR risk was consistent across different subgroups, and 3 interaction effects were observed. Significant nonlinear relationships between LTPA and IR risk were only observed in TyG and TyG-BMI indices.
Conclusion: This study underscores the importance of WW and regular physical activity in mitigating IR risk, highlighting that even less frequent but intense physical activity can confer significant metabolic benefits.
A New One Parameter Unit Distribution: Median Based Unit Rayleigh (MBUR): Parametric Quantile Regression Model
Authors: Attia Iman Mohammed
Published: October 2024

Parametric quantile regression is illustrated for the one parameter new unit Rayleigh distribution called Median Based Unit Rayleigh distribution (MBUR) distribution. The estimation process using reparameterized maximum likelihood function is highlighted with real dataset example. The inference and goodness of fit is also explored.
Impact of Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy on Symptoms and Well-Being in Irritable Bowel Syndrome Patients: a Scoping Review.
Authors: Sanchez-Cala Maria Andrea , Polania Santiago Adolfo , Lopez Maria Alejandra , Porto Estefania , Pardo Guillermo , Vallejo Isabella , Medina Laura , Cuevas Maria Isabel , Gonzalez-Ballesteros Lina Maria
Published: October 2024

Introduction: Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a common gastrointestinal disorder that significantly affects patient’s quality of life. It is characterized by a complex interplay of physical symptoms and psychological stress, with notable impact on daily function. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) has emerged as a promising intervention, targeting the psychological aspects of IBS to manage symptoms and improve life quality. Recognizing its potential and effectiveness as a treatment modality, considering the varied presentations of IBS across different populations.
Objective: To evaluate the effectiveness of CBT in the management of IBS symptoms among adults, focusing on the reduction of symptom severity, improvement in quality of life, and decrease in associated psychological distress.
Methods: This Scoping Review adopted an exhaustive search strategy across both published and unpublished literature. It began with an initial focus on databases such as PubMed, followed by a broader search across EMBASE, Scopus, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, LiLACS (BVS), PsycArticles (PsycNet), and ProQuest.
Results: All 21 selected studies demonstrated that CBT had a positive impact on reducing abdominal pain and frequency in patients with IBS. Additionally, four studies directly assessed quality of life, showing significant improvements in this aspect.
Conclusion: The reviewed literature highlights the significant role of CBT in IBS. CBT has been shown to improve gastrointestinal symptoms, reduce psychological distress and improve quality of life. It enhances self-efficacy and coping mechanisms by addressing cognitive distortions. Studies confirm that CBT leads to better clinical outcomes compared to educational support, with neurobiological findings showing reduced limbic activity, linked to decreased anxiety and symptoms. However, access to CBT remains limited, underscoring the need to address these barriers in standard IBS care.
Effects of Multiple Spices and Processing Methods on Pork Organoleptic Quality
Authors: Ekpo J. S. , Okon U. M.
Published: October 2024

This study evaluated the organoleptic quality of pork combined with various spices and subjected to different processing methods. Four distinct spices (turmeric, African nutmeg, ginger, and garlic) representing the treatments were utilized in conjunction with two processing methods, namely cooking and grilling, to assess the effects on sensory attributes such as flavour, aroma, texture, and overall acceptability. The study was laid in a randomized complete block design with a sensory panel comprising twenty participants who evaluated samples of pork treated with different spice and processing combinations. Results showed (p<0.05) effects of the spices on the flavour, juiciness, tenderness and overall acceptability of pork. However, the garlic group received the lowest level of acceptance by consumers. Grilling also proved to give a high acceptance rate in the processed pork. It was however concluded that the overall acceptability of pork was improved with the addition of spices. Turmeric, African nutmeg and ginger are recommended for use in the processing of pork as it poses no risk of rejection by consumers. Grilling can be adopted as a processing method for pork as it presents no negative impact on the sensory perception of consumers.
The Environmental Burden of the United States’ Bitcoin Mining Boom
Authors: Guidi Gianluca , Dominici Francesca , Steinsultz Nat , Dance Gabriel , Henneman Lucas , Richardson Henry , Castro Edgar , Bargagli-Stoffi Falco J. , Delaney Scott
Published: October 2024

Bitcoin mines—massive computing clusters generating cryptocurrency tokens—consume vast amounts of electricity. The amount of fine particle (PM2.5) air pollution created because of their electricity consumption, and its effect on environmental health, is unknown. In this study, we located the 34 largest mines in the United States in 2022, identified the electricity-generating plants that responded to them, and pinpointed communities most harmed by Bitcoin mine-attributable air pollution.
From mid-2022 to mid-2023, the 34 mines consumed 32.3 terawatt-hours of electricity—33% more than Los Angeles—85% of which came from fossil fuels. We estimated that 1.9 million Americans were exposed to ≥0.1 μg/m3 of additional PM2.5 pollution from Bitcoin mines, which were often hundreds of miles away from communities they affected. Americans living in four regions—including New York City and near Houston—were exposed to the highest Bitcoin mine-attributable PM2.5 concentrations (≥0.5 μg/m3) with the greatest health risks.
Comparing the Accuracy and Efficiency of Leaf Gas Exchange Measurements of Excised and Nonexcised Strawberry (Fragaria  ×ananassa Duch. ‘Camino Real’) Leaves
Authors: Montague Thayne , Villanueva-Morales Antonio , Khan Md Arifur Rahman , Wallace Russ , Panta Srijana
Published: October 2024

Acquiring leaf gas exchange (LGE) data from field experiments is critical for numerous research endeavors. However, because of the extended time needed to perform measurements and the necessity for moving equipment, the number of leaf samples collected is often limited. To address this concern, two studies were conducted to evaluate the accuracy and efficiency of LGE measurements of excised and nonexcised strawberry leaves. Research was conducted in experimental field plots located in Lubbock, TX, USA, where ‘Camino Real’ strawberry leaves was sampled for LGE measurements, during the 2021 growing season. Using an auto program mode, two LI-6400/XT portable machines simultaneously measured the LGE of nearby selected leaves from the same plant. Measurements were recorded every 30 seconds. After 90 seconds, the petiole of one leaf was cut (excised leaf treatment), and the auto program continued for an additional 480 seconds. The results indicated that although the LGE for nonexcised leaves remained stable, excised leaf LGE changed after excision. Within 30 seconds, the postexcision stomatal conductance to water vapor (gsw) and net leaf photosynthetic rate (A) exhibited nearly 97% and 99% accuracy, respectively, of nonexcised leaf gsw and A. However, the excised LGE decrease accelerated over time, with gsw continuing to decrease by more than 5% after 43 seconds, indicating ≤95% accuracy of the gsw results. The data suggested that strawberry LGE may be measured accurately within 30 to 40 seconds after leaf excision. During a separate experiment, the mean time to complete each individual strawberry LGE measurement was 68.4 seconds (±0.9 seconds) for nonexcised leaves. Conversely, the mean time to complete each LGE measurement of excised leaves was 42.2 seconds (±0.2 seconds). Therefore, leaf excision appears to be a viable method of maintaining accuracy and increasing the sample size while collecting strawberry LGE data.
Change Patterns of Major Functional Components in the Loquat Summer Shoot Leaf during Annual Growth
Authors: Wang Yang , Wang Zengbin , Zhao Xiaona , Li Yinuo , Lu Zhoumin
Published: October 2024

Loquat leaves are widely used in traditional Chinese medicine and food processing as raw materials. To provide a theoretical basis for suitable harvesting periods based on the utilization of distinct components, the change patterns of major functional components in the annual growth of loquat leaves were investigated. In this study, the summer loquat leaves were sampled regularly during their annual growth, and the contents of seven main functional components and 13 monomer components were determined. The results showed that there was a regular change pattern for major functional components during loquat annual growth from Jul 2020 to Jun 2021; however, the change trend was different among different components. Among them, the contents of total flavonoids, total phenols, total triterpenoid acids, vitamin C, asiatic acid, quillaic acid, corosolic acid, and chlorogenic acid presented an overall upward trend. The content of maslinic acid showed a downward trend, whereas the content of neochlorogenic acid did not change much throughout the whole growth period. The content changes in the loquat leaves were affected by the light durations and temperature changes in different seasons, with mutual transit during the flowering and fruit growth processes. Sampling in May to June was found to be a most optimized option when applied in Chinese medicine processing; however, the degree of fibrosis is another indicator when it is used as food raw material. This study revealed the change pattern of major functional components of loquat leaves during the annual growth period and provides a theoretical basis for the reasonable harvesting period of loquat leaves as raw materials for processing different types of products.