bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Replication of a neuroimaging biomarker for striatal dysfunction in psychosis
Authors: Rubio Jose , Lencz Todd , Cao Hengyi , Kraguljac Nina , Dhamala Elvisha , Homan Philipp , Horga Guillermo , Sarpal Deepak , Argyelan Miklos , Gallego Juan , Cholewa John , Barber Anita , Kane John , Maholtra Anil
Published: August 2023

To bring biomarkers closer to clinical application, they should be generalizable, reliable, and maintain performance within the constraints of routine clinical conditions. The functional striatal abnormalities (FSA), is among the most advanced neuroimaging biomarkers in schizophrenia, trained to discriminate diagnosis, with post-hoc analyses indicating prognostic properties. Here, we attempt to replicate its diagnostic capabilities measured by the area under the curve (AUC) in receiver operator characteristic curves discriminating individuals with psychosis (n=101) from healthy controls (n=51) in the Human Connectome Project for Early Psychosis. We also measured the test-retest (run 1 vs 2) and phase encoding direction (i.e., AP vs PA) reliability with intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC). Additionally, we measured effects of scan length on classification accuracy (i.e., AUCs) and reliability (i.e., ICCs). Finally, we tested the prognostic capability of the FSA by the correlation between baseline scores and symptom improvement over 12 weeks of antipsychotic treatment in a separate cohort (n=97). Similar analyses were conducted for the Yeo networks intrinsic connectivity as a reference. The FSA had good/excellent diagnostic discrimination (AUC=75.4%, 95%CI=67.0%-83.3%; in non-affective psychosis AUC=80.5%, 95%CI=72.1-88.0%, and in affective psychosis AUC=58.7%, 95%CI=44.2-72.0%). Test-retest reliability ranged between ICC=0.48 (95%CI=0.35-0.59) and ICC=0.22 (95%CI=0.06-0.36), which was comparable to that of networks intrinsic connectivity. Phase encoding direction reliability for the FSA was ICC=0.51 (95%CI=0.42-0.59), generally lower than for networks intrinsic connectivity. By increasing scan length from 2 to 10 minutes, diagnostic classification of the FSA increased from AUC=71.7% (95%CI=63.1%-80.3%) to 75.4% (95%CI=67.0%-83.3%) and phase encoding direction reliability from ICC=0.29 (95%CI=0.14-0.43) to ICC=0.51 (95%CI=0.42-0.59). FSA scores did not correlate with symptom improvement. These results reassure that the FSA is a generalizable diagnostic – but not prognostic – biomarker. Given the replicable results of the FSA as a diagnostic biomarker trained on case-control datasets, next the development of prognostic biomarkers should be on treatment-response data.
Measuring the polycentricity in waste governance: a comparative study on Shanghai, Tokyo, and Hong Kong
Authors: Dong Liang , HAO Xinyu , Qian Xuepeng , Benjamin Stueur , Wang Hongzhou , Chen Peixiu , Wang Xiaofei , Ma Wenting , Li Jiaying , Tong Xin , Zhang Xiaoling
Published: August 2023

The ongoing increase in waste and its mismanagement is jeopardizing urban sustainability. Although a polycentric approach has been introduced in the waste governance practice, measuring the polycentricity of urban waste governance remains challenging. This paper, therefore, adopts game theory to analyze urban waste governance from the perspective of governance agents, characterizing the polycentricity of waste governance by investigating the state of equilibrium of each agent's strategy. Shanghai, Tokyo, and Hong Kong are selected as target cities for comparative analysis. It is found that the active participation of formal recyclers, informal recyclers, and householders characterizes polycentric waste governance in Shanghai. However, in Tokyo, there is the active participation of only formal recyclers and householders and not informal recyclers. In Hong Kong, by comparison, householders and informal recyclers show active participation, but formal recyclers only provide a limited contribution to polycentric waste governance. Further discussion highlights that different governance patterns, socioeconomic factors, and policy formulation shape the distinctive polycentric governance characteristics of these cities. This paper provides a model basis for measuring and comparing the features of polycentric waste governance across different cities, thereby contributing to the knowledge aggregation regarding waste governance, as well as enlightening the pathways of waste governance practice.
Intestinal Trefoil Factor 3: a new biological factor mediating gut-kidney crosstalk in Diabetic kidney disease
Authors: Zhang Tao , Zhang Yinghui , Tao Jie , Rong Xianglu , Yang Yiqi
Published: August 2023

Purpose
To investigate the effect of TFF3 in the pathogenesis of Diabetic Kidney Disease (DKD), and explore the changes of TFF3 dynamic expression pattern in renal injury process.
Methods
DKD animal model was established by streptozotocin (STZ) (40 mg/kg/d, ip, for 5 days, consecutively) combined with the high fat diet (HFD) for 12 weeks. While animals were sacrificed at different time stages in DKD process (at 4 weeks, 8 weeks and 12 weeks, respectively).
Results
STZ combined with high-fat diet induced weight gain, increased blood glucose and decreased glucose tolerance in DKD mice; ​compared to the control group, the DKD group exhibits amount of glycogen and collagen fibers accumulation (P < 0.05) and the renal injury was aggravated in a time-dependent manner. The TFF3 expression level was decreased in kidney, and increased in colon tissue.
Conclusion
TFF3 is not only expressed in colon, but also expressed in renal medulla and cortex. TFF3 might be play a pivotal role in renal mucosal repair by gut-kidney crosstalk, and protect renal from high glucose microenvironment damage.
Analysis of error in the peak flow of rational formula due to basin storage effect
Authors: Lee Jinwook , Yoo Chulsang
Published: August 2023

This study analyzes the error in the peak flow of the Rational Formula (RF) or the Modified Rational Formula (MRF). For this objective, this study derives the RF and the MRF based on a simple rainfall-runoff analysis in a rectangular basin. Additionally, the storage effect in a basin is considered by introducing a linear reservoir at the exit of the basin. The derived runoff hydrograph is found to be identical to the Clark unit hydrograph (Clark UH). That is, the RF, MRF and Clark UH are found to be related to each other in a consistent procedure of rainfall–runoff analysis. Analysis of error in the peak flow, as well as that in the peak time, of RF or MRF is done by deriving and analyzing its ratio to that of the derived Clark UH. The result shows that the error (or ratio) can be explained effectively by the Russel coefficient (α), that is, the relative role of storage effect in a basin. Obviously, the RF or MRF is acceptable only when the Russel coefficient is very small (i.e., when the storage effect is very small). For example, when \({\alpha }=0.5\), the error in peak flow of RF or MRF is 30%. The error becomes higher to be 50% when \({\alpha }=1.0\). Additionally, it is found that the sum of the two ratios, one for the peak flow and the other for the peak time, is always 2. That is, the increase rate of peak time and the decrease rate of peak flow, introduced by considering the storage effect, are always the same.
The chemical characteristics of different sodium iron ethylenediaminetetraacetate sources and their relative bioavailabilities for broilers fed a conventional corn-soybean meal diet
Authors: Wang Shengchen , Wu Bingxin , Zhu Ling , Zhang Weiyun , Zhang Liyang , Wu Wei , Wu Jiaqi , Hu Yun , Li Tingting , Cui Xiaoyan , Luo Xugang
Published: August 2023

Background
Our previous studies demonstrated that divalent organic iron (Fe) proteinate sources with higher complexation or chelation strengths as expressed by the greater quotient of formation (Qf) values displayed higher Fe bioavailabilities for broilers. Sodium iron ethylenediaminetetraacetate (NaFeEDTA) is a trivalent organic Fe source with the strongest chelating ligand EDTA. However, no study on the bioavailability of Fe as NaFeEDTA in broilers and other agricultural animals has been reported before. Herein, firstly, 12 NaFeEDTA products were collected, and their chemical characteristics were determined. And then, one feed grade NaFeEDTA (Qf value = 2.07 × 108), one food grade NaFeEDTA (Qf value = 3.31 × 108) and one Fe proteinate with an extremely strong chelation strength (Fe-Prot ES, Qf value = 8,590) were selected to evaluate their bioavailabilities relative to Fe sulfate (FeSO4·7H2O) for broilers fed a conventional corn–soybean meal diet during d 1 to 21 by investigating the effects of the above Fe source and added Fe level on the growth performance, hematological indices, Fe contents, activities and gene expressions of Fe-containing enzymes in various tissues of broilers.
Results
NaFeEDTA sources varied greatly in chemical characteristics. Plasma Fe concentration (PI), transferrin saturation (TS), liver Fe content, succinate dehydrogenase (SDH) activities in liver, heart and kidney, catalase (CAT) activity in liver, and SDH mRNA expressions in liver and kidney increased linearly (P < 0.05) as supplemental Fe levels increased. However, differences among Fe sources were detected (P < 0.05) only for PI, liver Fe content, CAT activity in liver, SDH activities in heart and kidney, and SDH mRNA expressions in liver and kidney. Based on slope ratios from multiple linear regressions of the above indices on daily dietary analyzed Fe intake, the average bioavailabilities of Fe-Prot ES, feed grade NaFeEDTA, and food grade NaFeEDTA relative to the inorganic FeSO4·7H2O (100%) for broilers were 139%, 155%, and 166%, respectively.
Conclusions
The relative bioavailabilities of organic Fe sources were closely related to their Qf values, and NaFeEDTA sources with higher Qf values showed higher Fe bioavailabilities for broilers fed a conventional corn-soybean meal diet.
Real-World Evidence to Support the Registration of a New Osteoporosis Medicinal Product in Europe
Authors: Davenport Colleen , Gravel Patricia , Wang Yamei , Williams Setareh , Wieland Alethea , Mitlak Bruce
Published: August 2023

Real-World Evidence (RWE), which has historically been used to support post approval safety studies, has recently gained acceptance for new drug applications as supportive evidence or as new clinical evidence for medicinal products with orphan designation and/or in disease areas with high unmet need. Here we present a case study for the use of RWE in the approval of abaloparatide in the European Union (EU) under the tradename Eladynos. In addition to data from the pivotal Phase 3 study, the marketing authorization application (MAA) included clinical data from additional interventional and observational studies, as well as post marketing data obtained from the United States (US) market since approval of abaloparatide by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2017. The new interventional studies were not designed to assess fracture efficacy and cardiovascular safety which were topics of concern raised by the Committee for Medicinal Products for Human Use (CHMP) during their review of the initial MAA submitted in 2015. However, these studies taken together with the RWE formed the basis for a new MAA. Prior to the planned resubmission in the EU, national Scientific Advice (SA) was sought on the proposed clinical program, specifically on the relevance of Real-World Data (RWD) from an observational study to support and complement the efficacy and safety data already available from prospective randomized clinical trials. This case study demonstrates successful use of RWD to address a previously identified evidence gap raised by the CHMP during the review of an earlier MAA, which lead to the approval of Eladynos for the treatment of osteoporosis in the EU.
Statistical Inference on the Inverse Weibull Model Parameters Based on Dual Generalized Fuzzy Order Statistics
Authors: Maswadah M.
Published: August 2023

In statistical inference, the parameter estimations for lifetime distribution usually deal with precise information. However, in real-world situations, experimental performance results cannot always be recorded or measured precisely, and each observable event may only be identified with a fuzzy subset of the sample space. The mean objective of this work is to apply Bayes estimation for the inverse Weibull distribution parameters, based on dual generalized fuzzy order statistics when the available observations are described by means of fuzzy information. The Bayesian estimates are compared to the maximum likelihood estimates (MLEs) and the expectation maximization (EM) estimates, via Monte Carlo simulations, in terms of the mean square errors and mean percentage errors. The results are quite favorable to Bayes’ method, which provides better estimates and outperforms the maximum likelihood and the EM estimates for different sample sizes and several values for the true parameters. Finally, a numerical example is given to demonstrate the efficiency of the proposed method.
Effects of Ovariectomy on Cognitive Function and Estrogen Receptor Expression in Hippocampus of APP/PS1 Mice
Authors: Cong Chao , Gu Zuxi , Wu Panqing , Liu Xiyu , Chen Siru , Lin Guangyao , Zhu Lijun , Li Shengnan , Xu Lianwei
Published: August 2023

INTRODUCTION: To investigate the effects of low estrogen environment on cognitive function and estrogen receptors in APP/PS1 mice.
METHODS: A mouse model of cognitive dysfunction under low estrogen environment was established by removing ovaries, organelle morphology in CA1 area of mouse hippocampus was observed by transmission electron microscopy, Aβ deposition level in hippocampal area was detected by immunofluorescence and sulfur staining, serum estrogen level and oxidative stress index were detected by ELISA, and estrogen receptor α and β levels were determined by western blot.
RESULTS: A low estrogen environment leads to increased Aβ deposition and decreased estrogen receptor alpha and beta levels in hippocampal tissue.
DISCUSSION: This cognitive dysfunction may be related to abnormal Aβ deposition in a low estrogen environment.
Relationship between subclinical hypothyroidism and endothelial dysfunction in patients with type 2 diabetes: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Yu Fan , Fan Hong-Qi
Published: August 2023

Purpose: To investigate the relationship between subclinical hypothyroidism (SCH) and vascular endothelial function in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).
Methods: The reactive hyperemia index (RHI) as a surrogate marker of endothelial function was measured using a fingertip peripheral arterial tonometry device in 247 T2DM patients with or without SCH. The 75-g oral glucose tolerance test was conducted, and the brachial-ankle pulse wave velocity was measured.
Results: Compared with patients with euthyroidism (n=135), patients with SCH (n=112) had a lower RHI (1.60 ± 0.37 vs. 1.75 ± 0.41, P = 0.003), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol level (2.74 ± 0.91 vs. 2.99 ± 0.96 mmol/L, P = 0.037), estimated glomerular filtration rate (93.89 ± 23.23 vs. 100.3 ± 15.41 mL/min/1.73 m2, P = 0.016), and 30-min insulinogenic index (median, 17.76 [interquartile range: 8.72–27.75] vs. 39.40 [22.00–97.89], P < 0.001), and higher body mass index (26.13 ± 4.06 vs. 24.83 ± 3.17 kg/m2, P = 0.006) and area under the insulin curve (764.95 [493.04–1088.49] vs. 563.23 [345.71–887.20] pmol×h/L, P < 0.001). Patients with SCH was at increased risk of endothelial dysfunction (odds ratio = 2.845, 95% confidence interval: 1.090–7.427; P = 0.033), and the interaction between (BMI) and RHI (Pint = 0.02) was stronger in these patients than in patients with euthyroidism.
Conclusion: SCH is likely associated with the deterioration of endothelial function in patients with T2DM, and thus, examination of thyroid function is recommended for patients with T2DM. Further research is needed to clarify the mechanism underlying this association.
Cytoplasmic sequestering of a fungal stress-activated MAPK in response to a host plant phenolic acid
Authors: Horwitz Benjamin , Zuchman Rina , Koren Roni , Ziv Tamar , Lupu-Haber Yael , Dahan Nitsan , Levi Ofri
Published: August 2023

The stress-activated MAPK Hog1 inCochliobolus heterostrophus, a maize foliar pathogen, undergoes dephosphorylation upon exposure to ferulic acid (FA), a phenolic compound abundant in the host plant. Unlike its nuclear localization during osmotic stress, Hog1:GFP forms cytoplasmic foci in response to FA, indicating its sequestering. By using Hog1:GFP as an affinity purification bait, we isolated an FA-dependent sub-proteome from a subcellular fraction enriched with fluorescent foci. The identified proteins include RNA-binding proteins, translation initiation factors and mitochondrial proteins, suggesting the foci to be stress granules. Notably, the RRM and pumilio domain protein Puf2 was enriched, and Puf2:tdTomato formed foci partially colocalizing with Hog1:GFP foci. Hog1:GFP did not colocalize with peroxisomes. Mitochondria, however, which rapidly fragmented upon FA exposure, are partially overlapped with Hog1:GFP foci. The sequestering and dephosphorylation of MAPK Hog1 may collectively attenuate cell death induced by defense compounds released by the plant host.
Oligopoly in the integration of low carbon technologies and knowledge innovation
Authors: wei Mengqi , wang Jun
Published: August 2023

We investigate a dynamic oligopoly response model with differentiated goods and sticky prices.Basing on the double decision problem of production planning and water saving, we put forward the water resource optimization model, and give the optimal production planning, water saving decision and water purchasing decision under static Nash equilibrium, open loop Nash equilibrium, closed loop Nash equilibrium and feedback equilibrium. Finally, we analyze the impact of oligopoly competition on social welfare. And the optimal solution is simulated numerically when the parameter values change.In this manuscripts, we argue that the initial water right allocation is a dynamic variable that changes over time, and that the government can reallocate initial water rights based on real-time feedback from enterprises on water saving, use and purchase to avoid water wastage. The results show that an enterprise's production planning, water saving planning and water purchase decisions as well as the initial allocation of water rights are influenced by the initial reservation price of the product and the initial reservation price of the water right.
Practice Variation in Surgical Treatment for Lumbar Degenerative Disc Disease: Exploring Regional and Hospital Factors Influencing Surgical Rates
Authors: Munster Juliëtte J.C.M. , Halperin I. J.Y. , Ardesch Frank H. , Hout Wilbert B. , Benthem Peter Paul G. , Moojen Wouter , Peul Wilco C.
Published: August 2023

Introduction: The presence of significant, unwarranted variation in treatment suggests that clinical decision making also depends on where patients live instead of what they need and prefer. Historically, high practice variation in surgical treatment for lumbar degenerative disc disease (LDDD) has been documented. This study aimed to investigate whether the dissemination of evidence-based guidelines has reduced practice variation in surgical treatment of patients with LDDD.
Methods: We conducted a retrospective, cross-sectional analysis of all Dutch adults (>18 years) between 2016 and 2019. Demographic data from Statistics Netherlands were merged with a nationwide claims database, covering over 99% of the population. Inclusion criteria comprised LDDD diagnosis codes and relevant surgical codes. Practice variation was assessed at the level of postal code areas and hospital service areas (HSAs). Multivariable logistic regression analysis was employed to identify variables associated with surgical treatment.
Results: Among the 119,148 hospital visitors with LDDD, 14,840 underwent surgical treatment. Practice variation for laminectomies and discectomies showed less than two-fold variation in both postal code and HSAs. However, instrumented fusion surgery demonstrated a five-fold variation in postal code areas and three-fold variation in HSAs. Predictors of receiving surgical treatment included opioid prescription and patient referral status. Gender differences were observed, with males more likely to undergo laminectomy or discectomy, and females more likely to receive instrumented fusion surgery.
Conclusions and relevance: Our study highlights that the dissemination of evidence-based guidelines has contributed to a reduction in practice variation. High-quality research on effectiveness of instrumented fusion surgery is needed to decrease practice variation.
To Quickly Detect the Geographical Origin of Baimudan Tea by Multi-AdaBoost Model Combined with Raman Spectroscopy
Authors: Pan Wei , Liu Wenjing , Chi Yuwu
Published: August 2023

Multi-AdaBoost model has great potential in the field of spectral analysis. Baimudan tea is a type of white tea with superior quality. So far, the analysis of the geographical origin of Baimudan tea with the help of Raman spectroscopy combined with Multi-AdaBoost model has not been reported. In this paper, Raman spectroscopy combined with Multi-AdaBoost model was used to realize rapid, nondestructive, precise identification of the origin of Baimudan tea. Firstly, the Raman spectra of Baimudan tea from four different origins, including Fuan (FA), Fuding (FD), Zhenghe (ZH) and Songxi (SX) in Fujian, China, were collected. Then, K-Nearest Neighbor algorithm (KNN), Support Vector Machine (SVM), Multi-Layer Perceptron (MLP) and Decision Tree (DT) classifier model were constructed by the effective features extracted by Principal Component Analysis. Finally, the classifier models were also optimized by Multi-AdaBoost model. Results showed SVM model had the best performance and accuracy with the average recognition rates being 92.71%. In order to further optimize the identification effect of the model and improve its generalization ability, the DT model and SVM model were used as fitting classifiers to construct the Multi-AdaBoost-DT and Multi-AdaBoost-SVM model. Compared with the DT model, the recognition rates of Multi-AdaBoost-DT model for FA, FD, ZH and SX origin were all significantly increased and the average identification rate increased from 86.46% to 91.67%. Compared with the SVM model, the recognition rates of the Multi-AdaBoost-SVM model for FA and SX origin remained unchanged, due to the constructed model had reached local optimum. However, the recognition rates of FD and ZH origin were increased from 91.67% to 95.83%, 83.33% to 87.50%, respectively. And the average identification rate increased from 92.71% to 94.79%. The above results show that the Multi-AdaBoost-DT and Multi-AdaBoost-SVM models by reducing the weight of the samples incorrectly discriminated, constructed after repeated training are strong classifier models which can significantly improve the classification accuracy of the models and have a good prospect in the application of Raman spectral analysis. And the construct Multi-AdaBoost-SVM classifier model can effectively identify the geographical origin of Baimudan tea.
The Immunostimulatory Effect of Probiotic Conditioned Medium on RAW264.7 Murine Macrophages
Authors: Al-Najjar Mohammad AA , Abdulrazzaq Shaymaa B. , Alzaghari Lujain F , Mahmod Asma Ismail , Omar Amin , Hasen Eliza , Athamneh Tamara , Chellappan Dinesh Kumar , Barakat Muna
Published: August 2023

Probiotics are a mixture of beneficial live bacteria and/or yeasts that naturally survive in our bodies. Recently, loads of studies have focused on their role in the immune system and digestive tract. This study examines the immunostimulatory effect of commercially available-probiotic conditioned medium (CM) on RAW264.7 murine macrophages. Probiotic CM has been prepared by culturing the commercially available probiotic in a cell-culture medium overnight at 37°C, followed by centrifugation and filter-sterilization to be tested on macrophages. The immunostimulatory effect of different dilution percentages (50%, 75%, 100%) of CM was examined using MTT assay, pro-inflammatory cytokine (tumor necrosis factor TNF-alpha) production in macrophages., migration, and Phagocytosis assays. For all the examined CM ratios, the percentages of cell viability were > 80%. Regarding the migration scratch, TNF-alpha and phagocytosis assays, CM demonstrated a concentration-dependent immunostimulatory effect. However, the undiluted CM (100%) illustrated a significant (p-value < 0.05) stimulatory effect compared to the positive and negative control. The findings suggest that the secretions and products of probiotics, as measured in CM, may be closely linked to their immune-boosting effects. Understanding this relationship between probiotic secretions and immune function is crucial for further exploring the potential benefits of probiotics in enhancing overall health and well-being.
Facultative commensalism of gastropods (Mollusca: Gastropoda) in Neoponera verenae Forel, 1922 (Formicidae: Ponerinae) nests
Authors: Soares Mariane , Correia Igor , Santos Josieia , Delabie Jacques , D'ávila Stephane , Mariano Cléa
Published: August 2023

Ants are a ubiquitous, diverse, and ecologically dominant group and use different types of substrates for nesting. Ant nests offer protection and food in a temperature- and humidity-stable environment. Such an environment attracts numerous organisms that live in association with these social insects. The occurrence and interactions of some myrmecophilous groups have been widely studied, such as those of coleopterans and lepidopterans. Other groups have been neglected in this regard, such as gastropods. This study presents a series of observations of the interactions between gastropods and the Neotropical ponerine ant Neoponera verenae. A total of 56 individuals belonging to four families, seven genera, and eight species of terrestrial gastropods were found in ant nests established in three types of substrates (dry cocoa pod, soil, and decaying wood trunk). The most frequent gastropod family was Achatinidae (n = 41), followed by Scolodontidae (n = 13), Helicinidae (n = 1), and Vitrinidae (n = 1). The most frequent genera were Allopeas and Leptinaria (both from Achatinidae), which together accounted for 57.1% of the observed specimens. Young and adult individuals of Leptinaria sp.1 were found in ant nests. Neither aggressive nor predatory behaviors were recorded in interactions between ants and gastropods. Gastropods mainly made use of the shelter provided by ant nests, their favorable and stable microclimatic conditions, and the abundant food resources stored in waste chambers. Our study includes unpublished records of ant nest commensals and presents hypotheses on the close interactions between gastropods and ants.
Major postmortem pulmonary histopathological findings in preterm infants in Ethiopia
Authors: Tola Mesfin Asefa , Perez Ramon Portales , Nigussie Assaye K , Ayele Rahell Hailu , Beyera Tigist Desta , Mamed Messele Bezabih , Gurji Tiruzer Bekele , Gebrehiywot Addisu Alemu , Shumiye Yonas Girma , Bekuretsion Yonas , Gizaw Mahlet Abayneh , Eshetu Beza Alemu , Mekasha Amha , Worku Bogale , Bonger Zelalem Tazu , Kebede Zemene Tigabu , McClure Elizabeth M , Goldenberg Robert L , Muhe Lulu M
Published: August 2023

Background
Respiratory disorders are the leading cause of death in preterm infants. Postmortem lung histological findings may help to confirm or exclude a clinical diagnosis. This study aims to describe the common postmortem pulmonary histological findings and their potential contributions to preterm neonatal mortality in Ethiopia.
Methods
A prospective, multicenter, and cross-sectional clinical study of preterm infants was conducted in five hospitals in three regions of Ethiopia. A total of 4,919 preterm infants were enrolled, and of these, 3,852 were admitted to neonatal intensive care units (NICUs). Within 28 days of postnatal age, 1,109 or 29% of those admitted to the NICU died. Consent was requested from all parents for a complete diagnostic autopsy (CDA) and was obtained in 441 of the preterm neonates who died. Histopathological examination of representative lung tissues was performed.
Results
On histopathologic examination of the lungs of these deceased preterm neonates, the major abnormal histological changes observed were hyaline membrane disease (HMD) in 81.6%, pneumonia in 44.7%, pulmonary hemorrhage or diffuse alveolar hemorrhage (DAH) in 39%, and meconium aspiration syndrome (MAS) in 5.9%. A combination of histopathological findings, two or more, were also observed in > 30% of the preterm lungs.
Conclusions
HMD was the most common pulmonary finding in extremely and moderately preterm infants. The highly prevalent pneumonia and pulmonary hemorrhage, together with the frequently observed HMD, might have significantly contributed to their deaths. Histopathological findings, beyond confirming a clinical suspicion, can be used as an input in redesigning clinical-radiological parameters to identify respiratory pathologies, particularly pneumonia, in preterm infants.
Headache alleviation with nasal irrigation following endoscopic endonasal surgery for pituitary adenomas
Authors: Gu Jiayu , Chen Xiaoqun , Cheng Xiaoman , Zou Yunzhi , Deng Zekun , Li Depei , Zhou Zhihuan , Jiang Xiaobing
Published: August 2023

Background
Headache is very frequent following endoscopic endonasal surgery (EES) for pituitary adenomas, and affects the quality of life of patients, but was seldomly concerned before. This study aims to investigate the effect of nasal irrigation on relieving headache after EES.
Methods
A cohort of 101 pituitary adenoma patients (Cohort I) undergone EES were retrospectively analyzed to explore the risk factors of postoperative headache. Another cohort of 72 patients (Cohort II) accepted adjuvant nasal irrigation following surgery, were enrolled for further analysis. The Headache Impact Test (HIT-6) was used to score the headache, and patients with a HIT score of > 55 was considered with headache.
Results
In cohort I, 21.78% of patients suffered headache 1-month after EES, but decreased to 5.94% 3-month postoperatively. Multivariate analysis showed that postoperative sinusitis (OR = 3.88, 95%CI 1.16–13.03, p = 0.028) and Hardy's grade C-D (OR = 10.53, 95%CI 1.02-109.19, p = 0.049) independently predicted the presence of postoperative headache at 1 month. At the follow up of 3 months, the HIT-6 score was higher in the patients with sinusitis than the one without sinusitis (44.43 ± 9.78 vs. 39.72 ± 5.25, p = 0.017). In Cohort II, the incidence of sinusitis at 3 months was significantly lower than that in Cohort I (p = 0.028). More importantly, both headache incidence and HIT-6 score of the patients in Cohort II were significantly lower than those in Cohort I, at the follow up at 1- and 3- month.
Conclusions
Postoperative sinusitis is an independent risk factor for the presence of headache following EES for pituitary adenomas. And prophylactic nasal irrigation helps to relieve postoperative headache, probably by preventing the presence of sinusitis.
Combination of electrophysiological mapping, RFCA, and atrial appendectomy in a 5-year- old girl with tachycardia-induced cardiomyopathy: A case report
Authors: Zhang Min , Cao Xiaoxiao , zhang Yong
Published: August 2023

Background: Atrial tachycardia (AT) originating from the left atrial appendage (LAA) is uncommon and the most difficult arrhythmia to eliminate. Herein, we present the case of a 5-year-old girl with tachycardia-induced cardiomyopathy (TCM) caused by ATs originating from the LAA who was successfully treated with a combination of electrophysiological mapping, radiofrequency catheter ablation (RFCA), and atrial appendectomy. The effectiveness and safety of this combination therapy were evaluated through a 1-month follow-up period.
Case presentation: A 5-year-old female patient presented with cough for 3 days and syncope for 1 day. Surface echocardiography and 24-hour monitoring showed that the patient had persistent atrial tachycardia. Echocardiography revealed that the patient had an enlarged left ventricular diastolic dysfunction (46.1 mm) and reduced left ventricular ejection fraction (28.53%). The location of the lesion at the apex of the LAA was further confirmed by an electrophysiological study and RFCA. After RFCA, electrocardiographic monitoring showed a sinus rhythm with occasional paroxysmal atrial tachycardia. Finally, atrial appendectomy was performed, and the sinus rhythm returned to normal.
Conclusions. The heart function of the child improved and sinus rhythm persisted, proving the safety and effectiveness of the combined therapy of electrophysiological mapping, RFCA, and atrial appendectomy on TCM caused by ATs originating from the LAA.
Prognostic value of PD-L1 and CD8+TILS expression in patients with stage III rectal cancer
Authors: Li Baokun , Wang Feifei , Yang Fei , Han Jaxu , Meng Zesong , Zhou Chaoxi , Zhang Jianfeng , Yu Bin , Wang Guiying
Published: August 2023

Objective
To investigate the relationship between programmed death ligand 1 (PD-L1) and CD8+ tumor infiltrating lymphocytes (TILS), and the prognostic relationship between PD-L1 and CD8+ TILS expression on patients with stage III rectal cancer.
Methods
One hundred and sixteen rectal cancer patients who all underwent D2 radical surgery and all had no preoperative treatment were collected from January 2008 to December 2014 attending the Colorectal Cancer Treatment Center of the Fourth Hospital of Hebei Medical University, and we applied immunohistochemical methods to measure PD-L1 expression, CD8+TILS expression and the relationship between PD-L1 and CD8+TILS density expression. Their association with clinicopathology was evaluated and their prognostic value was predicted.
Results
The positive expression rate of PD-L1 in rectal cancer tissues was 19.0% (22/116), while the high-density CD8+ in rectal cancer tissues was 54.3% (63/116) and the low-density CD8+ in rectal cancer tissues was 45.7% (53/116). (P > 0.05), while there was a statistically significant difference in the depth of tumour invasion and lymph node metastasis (P < 0.05). Similarly, in the relationship between PD-L1/CD8 density, we also saw no statistically significant differences in age, gender and tumour size (P > 0.05), while there were statistically significant differences in the depth of invasion and lymph node metastasis (P < 0.05), and PD-L1 negative patients had a better prognosis compared to PD-L1 positive patients. In the analysis of PD-L1/CD8+TILS correlation and survival factors we concluded that patients in the negative PD-L1 and high CD8+TILS groups had the best prognosis and longer survival, while patients in the negative PD-L1 and low CD8+TILS groups had the worst prognosis and shorter survival.
Conclusion
PD-L1, CD8+TILS and PD-L1/CD8+TILS can be used as indicators for monitoring recurrence and metastasis in stage III rectal cancer, and also provide more effective guidance for immunotherapy in patients with advanced rectal cancer at a later stage.
Glacier retreat erodes plant–insect interaction diversity
Authors: Tu Bao Ngan , Khelidj Nora , Cerretti Pierfilippo , de Vere Natasha Louise , Ferrari Andrea , Paone Francesco , Polidori Carlo , Schmid Jürg , Sommaggio Daniele , Losapio Gianalberto
Published: August 2023

The retreat of glaciers worldwide is causing changes in species diversity, community composition and species interactions. However, the impact of glacier retreat on interaction diversity and ecological networks remains poorly understood. An integrative understanding of network dynamics is of major importance to supporting biodiversity and ecosystem functioning after glacier extinction. Here, we address how glacier retreat affects the frequency, complexity, and diversity of plant–insect interactions, both directly and indirectly through biodiversity change. We surveyed flower visitors and analyzed visitation networks along the foreland of the Mont Miné glacier (Valais, Switzerland). As glacier retreat impacts both plant and insect communities, we observe sharp changes in the diversity of plant–insect interactions and the structure of pollination networks. We find an increase in the frequency of interactions following glacier retreat, but an ultimate decrease with glacier extinction. After controlling for the effects of floral diversity, interaction frequency showed a regular ‘universal’ pattern. Accordingly, the complexity of pollination networks and interaction diversity tends to change at constant rates with glacier retreat. Our results indicate that glacier retreat decreases biodiversity and influences the stability of ecological networks. The good news is that increasing floral diversity counteracts these impacts by increasing interaction diversity and supporting complexity. Slowing down woody encroachment and enhancing floral diversity may therefore be key strategies for halting the erosion of ecological networks while increasing biodiversity and ecosystem functioning.
WITHDRAWN: Analysis of the Characteristics of "Na Space" in Zhuang ethnic Traditional Village Settlement ——A case study of traditional village settlements in southwest Guangxi
Authors: Zhang Dong , Huang Yuanting , Cheng Mingyang
Published: August 2023

The You river and Zou river, tributaries of the Pearl River in southwest Guangxi, are the origin of the Zhuang ancestors. ("Na" means paddy field in Zhuang language) and the Zhuang ethnic culture system of southwest Guangxi is dominated by the unique "Na culture", and "Na space" is the typical spatial form of traditional villages corresponding to the Zhuang culture in this region. Based on the purpose of systematically summarising the ethnic cultural system of the Zhuang minority and establishing the overall Zhuang villages spatial morphology cognition, the study uses spatial syntax axis analysis to quantify the spatial morphology of the sample villages. The Zhuang of southwest Guangxi can be divided into stripes, clusters and scattered clusters according to the overall morphology, which correspond to the linear, the intersection of village and nature and the compact spatial relationship represented by "Na space". Combined with the overall spatial comprehensibility of the traditional Zhuang villages is less than 0.7, the difference between the ethnic nodes "Na space" and the core axis ranges from 0.05–0.5, with a certain range of data fluctuations and other quantitative results, it is proposed that the space of Zhuang villages is an ethnic characteristic "Na space" with a weak boundary in the overall morphology, a strong spatial in the order, and a high and flexible distribution of the node space.The results suggest that Zhuang villages space is an ethnic characteristic "Na space" with weak boundary, strong spatial order and high flexibility in node space distribution. The Zhuang ethnic group is the most populous ethnic group in China, and this study can provide reference for future international research on ethnic minorities and the spatial pattern of their traditional villages.
Metagenomic and metabolomic profiling of dried shrimp (Litopenaeus Vannamei) prepared by a procedure traditional to the south China coastal area
Authors: Yu Mingjia , Liu Jiannan , Chen Junjia , Lin Chuyi , Deng Shiqing , Wu Minfu
Published: August 2023

Sun-drying is a traditional process for preparing dried shrimp in coastal area of South China, but its impacts on nutrition and the formation of flavor-contributory substances in dried shrimp remain largely unknown. This study aimed to examine the effects of the production process on the microbiota and metabolites in dried shrimp. 16S rDNA amplicon sequencing was employed to identify 170 operational taxonomic units (OTUs), with Vibrio, Photobacterium, and Shewanella emerging as the primary pathogenic bacteria in shrimp samples. Lactococcus lactis was identified as the principal potential probiotic to accrue during the dried shrimp production process, and found to contribute significantly to the development of desirable shrimp flavors. LC-MS-based analyses of dried shrimp sample metabolomes revealed a notable increase in compounds associated with unsaturated fatty acid biosynthesis, arachidonic acid metabolism, amino acid biosynthesis, and flavonoid and flavanol biosynthesis throughout the drying process. Subsequent exploration of the relationship between metabolites and bacterial flora highlighted the predominant coexistence of Bifidobacterium, Clostridium, and Photobacterium contributing heterocyclic compounds and metabolites of organic acids and their derivatives. Conversely, Arthrobacter and Staphylococcus were found to inhibit each other, primarily in the presence of heterocyclic compounds. This comprehensive investigation provides valuable insights into the dynamic changes in the microbiota and metabolites of dried shrimps spanning different drying periods, which we expect to contribute to enhancing production techniques and safety measures for dried shrimp processing.
Recombinant human thrombopoietin improves platelet engraftment after autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation in patients with aggressive lymphoma
Authors: Xu Yang , Qiu Xi , Fan Yili , Wang Luyao , Jiang Huawei , Xiao Xibin , Chen Boxiao , Zhang Jiawei , Huang Liansheng
Published: August 2023

High-dose chemotherapy (HDT) followed by autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (ASCT), recommended as consolidation therapy for high-risk lymphoma, or salvage therapy for relapsed/refractory lymphoma, has shown survival benefits for patients [1-3]. However, the complications of transplant-related infection and bleeding as well as disease recurrence and progression, remain serious clinical problems to be solved.
The median time to platelet engraftment after ASCT ranges from 9 to 38 days [4]. Prolonged platelet engraftment increases the risk of bleeding events, even life-threatening, and also leads to platelet transfusion dependence or resistance accompanied by the increasing incidence of transfusion side effects [5]. All of the above results in prolonged hospital stay, increased medical cost and decreased quality of life for patients [6-8]. However, there is no effective therapeutic strategy to promote platelet engraftment after ASCT.
Thrombopoietin (TPO), as a hematopoietic growth factor, could promote thrombopoiesis by stimulating the differentiation of hematopoietic stem cells into megakaryocytes and the proliferation and maturation of megakaryocytes [9-12]. Recombinant human TPO (rhTPO), which retains the amino acid sequence identical to endogenous TPO, has been widely used in chemotherapy-induced thrombocytopenia, immune thrombocytopenia [13, 14] and aplastic anemia (AA) [15]. The safety of rhTPO has been established for decades in previous studies [16, 17] for decades. Recent studies in allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo-HSCT) demonstrated that rhTPO could promote platelet engraftment and reduce platelet transfusion [18, 19], and even significantly improve the prognosis of patients with myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) and AA [20]. And rhTPO was also found to accelerate platelet engraftment after ASCT in patients with multiple myeloma, especially for those with poor CD34+ cell counts [21]. Our present study evaluated the efficacy and safety of rhTPO after ASCT in patients with malignant lymphoma.
Using evolutionary game theory to study the layout of urban distribution centers with considering consumers' green preference
Authors: li Shilong , Wei Zhenlin , Wang Haoxiang , Li Chen
Published: August 2023

The geographical layout of urban distribution centers (DCs) affects not only the efficiency of distribution activities, but also the amount of negative externalities arising from delivery vehicles. Recently, the phenomenon of logistic sprawl has significantly reduced the social welfare as more negative externalities are produced. Government should play key role in optimizing the layout of urban DCs through incentive policy. For the first time, we apply the evolutionary game theory in controlling the layout of urban DCs with considering consumers’ green preference. We have developed a basic evolutionary game model based on static tax and subsidy to investigate the interactive mechanism between distribution enterprises (DEs) and government. Then we analyze the evolutionary behavior of DEs and government in three dynamic mechanisms: dynamic tax and static subsidy, dynamic subsidy and static tax, and dynamic tax and dynamic subsidy. Finally, a case study of optimizing the layout of DCs of Beijing is conducted. The simulation results show that the static tax and static subsidy mechanism cannot reach an evolutionary stable point, the three dynamic mechanisms can get the evolutionary stable state (ESS) effectively, in which the dynamic subsidy and static taxation is most effective for reaching the highest level of stable proportion state. In addition, we perform a sensitivity analysis to evaluate the influence of consumers' green preference on the evolutionary path of green DEs. This study can provide theoretical support for the government to formulate scientific incentive policies to guide the rational layout of urban DCs.
Extraction and Virtual Restoration of Scratched and Cracked Murals with Hyperspectral Data
Authors: Qiao Kezhen , Hou Miaole , Lyu Shuqiang , Sun Pengyu , Li Lihong , Zhang Zhensong , Duan Haishi
Published: August 2023

With the increase of attention to the protection of cultural relics, it is of urgent practical significance to restore the various deterioration in the murals. In view of previous studies, there are various problems such as using single data and restoring single deterioration type. We use hyperspectral images to enhance the scratches and cracks on murals and find their commonality in the images. First, an information enhancement method was proposed, which including PCA transformation, high-pass filter and improved local contrast enhancement. Second, in the result of enhanced information, the deterioration information was extracted by making non-deteriorationmask, multi-scale bottom hat transformation and Otsu threshold segmentation. Then the extracted results were denoised by connected domain marker and morphological. And the damaged image was restored by the method of Fast-Marching. Finally, the results of deterioration information under different enhancement methods were discussed. The proposed was significantly improved the extraction accuracy. We also evaluated the image restoration accuracy of different virtual restoration methods, and found that FMM has applicability when restoring large cracks and scratches in the mural.