bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Deciphering climate resilience in Indian cattle breeds by selection signature analyses
Authors: Nayak Sonali Sonejita , Panigrahi Manjit , Rajawat Divya , Ghildiyal Kanika , Sharma Anurodh , Jain Karan , Bhushan Bharat , Dutt Triveni
Published: September 2023

The signature of selection is a crucial concept in evolutionary biology that refers to the pattern of genetic variation that arises in a population as a result of natural selection. In the context of climate adaptation, the signature of selection can reveal the genetic basis of adaptive traits that enable organisms to survive and thrive in changing environmental conditions. Breeds cultivated in diverse agroecological zones exhibit genetic "footprints" within their genomes that mirror the influence of climate-induced selective pressures, subsequently impacting phenotypic variance. We examined genotypic data from eight different cattle groups (Gir, Hariana, Kankrej, Nelore, Ongole, Red Sindhi, Sahiwal, and Tharparkar) that are adapted to diverse regional climates in India. It is assumed that the genomes of animals residing in these regions have been altered through selection for various climatic adaptations. In this study, we utilized bovine 50k chip data and four genome scan techniques to assess the genetic regions of positive selection for high temperature adaptation in eight distinct cattle populations. We have also investigated the population stratification i.e. PCA, genome-wide investigation of genetic diversity, inbreeding, effective population size in our target dataset. To identify selection signature regions in this work, we used four intra-population statistics: Tajima's D, CLR, iHS, and ROH. We identified potential regions for selection that is likely to be caused by climate. We have identified many adaption genes as several potential selection signature areas. These include genes like HSPB2, HSPB3, HSP20, HSP90AB1, HSF4, HSPA1B, CLPB, GAP43, MITF, and MCHR1 that have been previously identified in the cattle population that lives in high- and low-temperature regions.
Cognitive impairment and domain-specific life satisfaction among older adults: findings from the Korean National Longitudinal Study on Aging
Authors: Song Inmyung , Kim Dong-Sook
Published: September 2023

Background
Little is known regarding the relationship between cognitive impairment and domain-specific life satisfaction. This study examined the association between cognitive impairment and satisfaction with several domains of life in older Koreans.
Methods
This study used data from the Korean National Longitudinal Study on Aging from 2014 to 2020. Cognitive function was measured with the Mini-Mental State Examination. Four different models are used to assess the effect of cognitive impairment on life satisfaction. The dependent variable in each model was overall life satisfaction, satisfaction with health status, economic status, and marital relationship, respectively. Generalized estimating equation modelling approach was used to take advantage of panel data.
Results
In the weighted sample, 54.1% of the participants were female. The mean (± SE) age of all participants was 68.9 (± 0.1) years old. A total of 1,671 participants (24.8%) had cognitive impairment. After controlling for other variables, individuals without cognitive impairment were more satisfied with overall life (B = 2.85, p < 0.001), health status (B = 4.79, p < 0.001), economic status (B = 3.31, p < 0.001), and marital relationship (B = 3.63, p < 0.001) than impaired individuals.
Conclusion
Cognitive impairment in old age is significantly associated with overall life satisfaction as well as satisfaction with several domains, such as health status, income status, and marital relationship. The impact of cognitive function is greater for domain-specific satisfaction than for overall life satisfaction.
SHMT2 promotes thyroid cancer metastasis through epigenetic activation of AKT signaling
Authors: Yue Xuetian , Sun Min , Zhao Mingjian , Li Ruowen , Zhang Yankun , Shi Xiaojia , Ding Changyuan , Ma Chunhong , Lu Jinghui
Published: September 2023

Cancer cells alter their metabolism and epigenetics to support cancer progression. However, the key modulator connecting metabolism and epigenetics is still limited. Here, we reveal that SHMT2 generates SAM to epigenetically repress PTEN, leading to thyroid cancer metastasis depending on activation of AKT signaling. SHMT2 is elevated in thyroid cancer, which cooperates with poor prognosis. Overexpressed SHMT2 promotes thyroid cancer metastasis both in vitro and in vivo. Proteomic enrichment analysis shows that AKT signaling is activated in thyroid cancer, which is positively associated with SHMT2 in specimens from patients. Blocking AKT activation eliminates effects of SHMT2 on promoting thyroid cancer metastasis. Furthermore, SHMT2 is negatively associated with AKT negative regulator PTEN in THCA specimens. Mechanistically, SHMT2 catalyzes serine metabolism and produces activated one-carbon units that can be used to generate SAM for methylation of CpG islands in PTEN promoter for PTEN suppression and following AKT activation. Importantly, interfering PTEN expression affects SHMT2 functions on promoting AKT signaling activation and thyroid cancer metastasis. Collectively, our research demonstrates that SHMT2 connects metabolic reprogramming and epigenetics, which contributes to poor progression of thyroid cancer.
Multilevel anterior cervical discectomy and fusion using zero-profile anchored cages: a minimum 5-year follow-up study
Authors: He Haoyu , Lü Guohua , Li Yunchao , Yuan Hui , Pan Changyu , Wang Xiaoxiao , Chen Zejun , Kuang Lei
Published: September 2023

BackgroundTo evaluate the mid-term results of anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) using zero-profile anchored cages for the treatment of multilevel degenerative cervical spondylosis.MethodsThirty-four patients aged 54.1±6.0 years (range, 41–64 years) who underwent 3- or 4-level ACDF with zero-profile anchored cages for degenerative cervical spondylosis in a single institute between 2014 and 2016 were included. Clinical outcomes were assessed using the visual analogue scale (VAS), modified Japanese Orthopaedic Association (mJOA) scores, and Neck Disability Index (NDI) preoperatively and postoperatively at the 1-, 2-, and 5-year follow-ups. Radiological outcomes including fusion rate, disc height (DH), subsidence, fused segment angle (FSA), and cervical lordosis (CL) were also assessed at the same intervals.ResultsThe mean follow-up time was 68 months. All patients had significant recovery of neurological function. Compared with the preoperative scores, the postoperative VAS, JOA, and NDI scores were improved at each time point (p<0.05). The FSA and CL were improved at each follow-up time point after the operation(p<0.05). All surgical segments were fused and there was 32 cage subsidence (30.2%) observed at the 5-year follow-up. The differences in VAS, JOA scores, NDI, fused segment angle, and cervical lordosis between the 5-year and the 2-year follow-up were not statistically significant(p>0.05). The loss of lordosis was not related to symptoms.ConclusionsACDF using zero-profile anchored cages for multilevel cervical spondylopathy achieved satisfactory mid-term outcomes. Cage subsidence and loss of cervical lordosis mainly occurred duringthe first two years but remained stable afterward and were not related to symptoms.
Lived experiences of genetic diagnosis for rare disease patients: A qualitative interview study
Authors: Modelhart Antonia , Sturz Dominique , Kremslehner Lydia , Prainsack Barbara
Published: September 2023

Background
Genetic diagnosis is often understood as a single event within the care pathway of rare disease patients. Legal, policy and ethical scholarship focusing on rare diseases and genetic information discusses questions of how to best deal with the process of genetic diagnosis and the communication of genetic information within a given health system. We co-created a research design with rare disease patients and their families in Austria to explore in-depth the experiences of genetic diagnosis for people affected by rare diseases. Our objective was to trace the whole pathway of genetic testing and understand how rare disease patients experience genetic diagnosis as part of their care pathway in the healthcare system.
Results
Data was collected through in-depth semi-structured qualitative interviews with 14 patients with a suspected or diagnosed rare disease or their parents focusing on their perception of the pathway of genetic diagnosis in Austria. This pathway included the initial triggering of genetic diagnosis, the process of testing and its immediate (communication of results, counselling) and long-term, wider aftermath. Patients missed a clear link to already established forms of care such as their primary care/treating physicians. They also advocate for an integrated and interdisciplinary care pathway.
Conclusions
Our study underscores the importance of a continuous care and communication pathway spanning from the initial genetic diagnosis process to post-test phases. It further shows the importance of exploring patients’ perspectives through qualitative research methods to understand the intricate workings of public health policies and tools. Notably, integrating genetic diagnosis into a broader care trajectory is crucial for a holistic approach to care for rare disease patients who often rely on regular interactions with the healthcare system. Achieving this holistic approach requires collaboration between experts in specific rare disease areas, primary care physicians, and support networks.
Living with cognitive impairment: The impact of being diagnosed with dementia. A qualitative study.
Authors: Molvik Inger , Kjelvik Grete , Selbaek Geir , Rokstad Anne Marie Mork
Published: September 2023

Objective
Although knowledge about the experience of being diagnosed with dementia is limited, with the expected rise in dementia’s prevalence in the coming decades, such knowledge is pivotal for the people diagnosed, their families, and healthcare planners. Thus, the aim of our study was to explore the experience of living with cognitive impairment and dementia and the impact of being diagnosed with dementia.
Method
A qualitative design based on a phenomenological hermeneutic approach was applied. Participants were recruited based on age-adjusted values below ​​threshold values on the Montreal Cognitive Assessment Scale (i.e. 70–79 years, < 22; 80–89 years, < 21; 90 + years, < 20), and the sample ultimately included 15 participants: six with and nine without a documented dementia diagnosis. Qualitative content analysis was performed on the transcribed interviews in four steps to identify codes, categories, and the overall theme.
Results
Three major categories emerged from the interviews: (1) experiences with changes, (2) experiences with being diagnosed with dementia, and (3) existential experience. All participants with and most participants without a dementia diagnosis experienced changes in cognition.
Conclusion
Our findings imply that being diagnosed with dementia is a relief because it explains observed cognitive and functional decreases and reduces confusion, shame and stigma. However, it also raises concerns about an unknown future. Most participants not diagnosed with dementia reported having little or no difficulty with everyday living and leading a fulfilling life. Those findings emphasise the significance of timely versus early diagnosis.
Comparison of Low-cost, Electricity-free, CPAP (OXYJET) with High-Flow Nasal Cannula Treatment outside Critical Care: A Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Hasan Taufiq , Ahmed Md. Kawsar , Alman Kaisar Ahmed , Rashid Meemnur , Muhib Farhan , Rahman Saeedur , Noor Nawsabah , Islam Md. Khairul , Chowdhury Forhad Uddin Hasan , Sharif Md. Mohiuddin , Ratul Rifat Hossain , Jahan Sohana , Miah Md. Titu , Amin Robed , Labrique Alain Bernard , Khan Yasser
Published: September 2023

Background: In Low- and Middle-income Countries (LMICs), the general wards typically are limited to providing low-flow oxygen therapy (up to 15L/min). However, high-flow treatment, such as noninvasive ventilation (NIV) administered in pre-ICU settings, has effectively reduced intensive care unit (ICU) admissions. Here, we describe a low-cost, electricity-free, pressure-driven, and 3D-printed continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) device (‘OxyJet’) which can provide noninvasive ventilation support in the general wards. This study assesses whether the developed CPAP device can be alternative to a High-Flow Nasal Cannula (HFNC) device for supporting hypoxemic patient outside critical care.
Methods: We performed an open-label, parallel-assignment, randomized controlled trial in 45 severely hypoxemic patients, between April 17 to July 9, 2021 (NCT04681859). The primary outcome was ventilator-free days at day 10 (VFD10). We compared changes from baseline in peripheral oxygen saturation, heart rate, respiratory rate, mortality hazard-ratio, death/intubation in 10 days, patient recovery, adverse events and oxygen consumption of the two treatment groups.
Results: The trial results showed that the patients in CPAP group had a mean difference in the ventilator-free days at day 10 (VFD10) of 2.75 (95% CI -0.17—5.68; p=0.003). The mortality of the patients in CPAP group showed a low hazard-ratio (HR) of 0.65 (95% CI 0.31—1.37; p=0.041). The death/intubation in 10 days of the patients in CPAP group showed a low relative-risk (RR) of 0.52 (95% CI 0.25—1.05; p=0.033). Finally, the device consumed significantly less oxygen than HFNC, with a median difference of -16.11 L/min (95% CI -24.63 — -6.67; p=0.001).
Conclusions: The study proposes a potential solution to address the lack of noninvasive ventilation support in wards or resource-limited settings hospitals.
COVID-19 control measures unexpectedly increased the duration of stay at High Speed Rail stations during the first community outbreak in Taiwan
Authors: Chang Ning , Tsai Yi-chen , Chen Wei J. , Lo Chung-Chuan , Chang Hsiao-Han
Published: September 2023

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Taiwan has implemented strict border controls and community spread prevention measures. As part of these efforts, the government also implemented measures for public transportation. In this study, we examined the impact of these measures on the number of passengers and duration of stay in two major public transportation systems: Taiwan Railways (TR) and Taiwan High Speed Rail (THSR) during the community outbreak from April 29th to May 29th, 2021. Using data from Google’s Community Mobility Reports and a local telecommunications company, we found that while the number of passengers decreased as expected, the duration of stay at THSR stations unexpectedly increased after the cancellation of non-reserved seats. Our analysis demonstrates the value of human mobility data as a reference for policy makers to monitor the impact of disease prevention measures and make data-driven decisions.
Somatic mutations in myeloid transcription factors and in activated signaling genes predict the risk of treatment failure and progression to advanced phase in chronic myeloid leukemia
Authors: Kim Dennis Dong Huan , Perusini Maria Agustina , Zackova Daniela , Kim TaeHyung , Pagnano Katia , Pavlovsky Carolina , Jeziskova Ivana , Kvetková Anežka , Jurcek Tomas , Kim Jaeyoon , Yoo Youngseok , Yi Seongyoon , Lee Hyewon , Kim Kyoung Ha , Chang Myung Hee , Capo-Chichi Jose-Mario , Medeiros Jessie , Arruda Andrea , Minden Mark , Zhang Zhaolei , Abelson Sagi , Mayer Jiri
Published: September 2023

Background
Advancements in genomics are transforming the clinical management of chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) towards precision medicine. The impact of epigenetic modifier gene mutations on treatment outcomes is still under debate. Here we studied the association of somatic mutations in the genes of epigenetic modifiers and activated signaling/myeloid transcription factor (AS/MTF), with disease progression and treatment failure in CML patients following tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI) therapy.
Patients and Methods:
A total of 394 CML patient samples were sequenced, including 254 samples collected at initial diagnosis, and 140 samples taken during follow-up. Single molecule molecular inversion probe (smMIP)-based next generation sequencing (NGS) was conducted targeting recurrently mutated loci in 40 genes with a limit of detection of 0.2%.
Results
A total of 70 mutations were detected in 57 (22.4%) diagnostic samples, while 64 mutations were detected in 39 (27.9%) of the follow-up samples. Carrying any mutation at initial diagnosis was associated with worse outcomes following TKI therapy, particularly in AS/MTF genes. Patients having these mutations at initial diagnosis and treated with Imatinib showed higher risks of treatment failure (HR 2.53, 95% CI [1.13–5.66], p = 0.0239). The adverse prognostic impact of the mutations was abrogated when treated with second generation TKIs (2G-TKI). The multivariate analysis confirmed that mutation in AS/MF genes is an independent adverse prognostic factor for molecular response, failure-free survival (FFS), and progression risk.
Conclusion
Mutations in the AS/MTF genes using smMIP-based NGS can help identify patients with a potential risk of both treatment failure and progression, even from initial diagnosis, and may help upfront TKI selection.
The impact of providing care for physical health in severe mental illness on informal carers: a qualitative study.
Authors: Sud Dolly , Bradley Eleanor , Tritter Jonathan , Maidment Ian
Published: September 2023

Background
People with severe mental illness (SMI) e.g., schizophrenia are at a substantially higher risk of premature death, in that they die 10–20 years earlier than the general population. Cardiovascular disease (CVD) and diabetes are the main potentially avoidable contributors to early death.
Aims
To explore the impacts of providing care for physical health in severe mental illness on informal carers.
Method
Thematic analysis of semi-structured interviews with eight informal carers of people with SMI in the UK national health services.
Results
Informal carers played an active part in the management of the patient’s conditions and shared their illness experience. Carers provided both emotional and practical involvement and informal carers’ own lives were affected in ways that were sometimes deeply profound. Informal carers were involved in both ‘looking after’ the patient from the perspective of doing practical tasks such as collecting dispensed medication from a community pharmacy (caring for) and managing feelings and emotions (caring about).
Conclusions
Caring for the physical health of someone with SMI can be understood as having two dimensions - 'caring for' and 'caring about'. There is a bidirectional relationship between these two dimensions, and both have a cost for the informal carer. With appropriate support informal carers could be more actively involved at all stages of care with an awareness that carers may minimise the information they share about their own needs and impacts of their role to spare the person they care and themselves any distress.
Aspirin is as effective as low molecular weight heparins in preventing symptomatic venous thromboembolism following arthroscopic anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction
Authors: Yazdi Hamidreza , Eslami Arvin , Torkaman Ali , Elahifar Omid , Kasaeian Amir , Alimoghadam Shaya , Alimoghadam Rojina , Abolghasemian Mansour
Published: September 2023

Objective
Little evidence exists on the optimal agent for thromboprophylaxis following arthroscopic anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR). This study was conducted to compare the effectiveness of aspirin and low molecular weight heparins (LMWHs) to prevent symptomatic venous thromboembolism (VTE) following arthroscopic ACLR and their safety of use.
Methods
In this retrospective study, we investigated patients who underwent ACLR surgery between March 2016 and March 2021 based on inclusion and exclusion criteria. The rate of venous thromboembolism events and wound complications were statistically compared between the patients that received an LMWH and those who took aspirin for thromboprophylaxis. We also used logistic regression modeling to assess the effect of the prophylactic agent on the likelihood of developing VTE.
Result
761 patients (761 knees) were included. 458 and 303 patients had received aspirin and LMWH, respectively. There was no significant difference in the demographic factors of the two groups. Five patients in the aspirin group (1.09%) and five patients in the LMWHs group (1.65%) developed a symptomatic VTE event (P value = 0.530). The two groups were not significantly different in terms of other complications, such as hemarthrosis or surgical site infection (P > 0.05).
Conclusion
Aspirin is as effective as LMWH in preventing VTE events after ACL reconstruction. Prospective studies including a no-prophylaxis group are warranted to assess this issue further.
Level of Evidence: III
Evaluation of Oral Health Status in the Population above 50: Evidence from the Ardakan Cohort Study on Aging (ACSA)
Authors: Delbari Ahmad , Ghavidel Fatemeh , Rashedi Vahid , Bidkhori Mohammad , Saatchi Mohammad , Hooshmand Elham
Published: September 2023

Background
The global population is undergoing rapid aging, and older individuals are more susceptible to various health issues, including oral health problems. Despite the increasing attention given to healthy aging, oral health has often been overlooked in discussions related to health problems. This study aims to assess the oral health status of middle-aged and older adults in Iran.
Methods
This cross-sectional study analyzed data from 4970 men and women aged 50 years and above, who participated in the Ardakan Cohort Study on Aging (ACSA) between 2020 and 2022. Trained personnel administered a questionnaire and conducted oral health examinations to determine the oral health status and oral hygiene behaviors of the participants.
Results
The mean value (SD) of the total Decayed, Missing, and Filled Teeth (DMFT) index was 21.3 (10.7). Approximately 46% of all participants were completely edentulous (without natural teeth). Moreover, 58.5% of the total sample wore dentures, and the mean age (SD) when they started using dentures was 48.5 (20.7) years. About 75% of participants with natural teeth reported brushing their teeth at least once a day, while about 63% of denture wearers cleaned their dentures daily. In the sample, 28% of individuals had visited a dentist in the last year. The prevalence of difficulty in biting and chewing food among the participants was 48.23% and 44.65%, respectively. Additionally, nearly 68% of all samples reported experiencing at least one difficulty in daily functioning due to oral/dental conditions. The study identified cutoff points of seven (Sen = 52.53 and Spe = 80.89) and 10 (Sen = 65.52 and Spe = 75.57) missing teeth, indicating the presence of at least one problem in daily functioning due to oral and dental conditions in middle-aged and older adults.
Conclusion
The study reveals a high prevalence of edentulism and denture use among participants aged 50 years and above. The majority of samples reported difficulties in daily functioning due to oral and dental conditions, especially in biting and chewing food. These findings highlight the importance of proactive measures to address oral health issues in middle-aged and older adults, thereby enhancing their overall health and well-being.
Exploring the Anticorrosive Capabilities of new hybrid epoxy/Br: A Comprehensive Study
Authors: El-Aouni Naoual , Dagdag Omar , Amri Abed slam , Kim Hansang , Dkhireche Nadi , Elbachiri Abderrahim , Berdimurodov Elyor , Berisha Avni , Rafik Mohamed
Published: September 2023

Corrosion inhibition of carbon steel structures in acidic environments is imperative across various sectors. This study investigated a novel epoxy resin, bisphenol A tetrabromo dipropoxy dianiline tetraglycidyl ether (TGEDADPTBBA), as an new hybrid epoxy/Br inhibitor for E24 carbon steel corrosion in 1.0 M hydrochloric acid using multi-pronged experimental and theoretical methods. Potentiodynamic polarization revealed TGEDADPTBBA acted as a mixed-type inhibitor, achieving 95–97% inhibition efficiency at 10− 3 M. EIS showed TGEDADPTBBA suppressed charge transfer resistance, implying decreased corrosion rate. EFM provided additional evidence of inhibition via reduced corrosion current density, diffusion impedance, and corrosion rate. TGEDADPTBBA's adsorption on steel followed the Langmuir isotherm, indicating a maximum monolayer. SEM/EDS showed TGEDADPTBBA formed a protective film inhibiting elemental dissolution. Quantum chemical calculations and molecular dynamics simulations were synergized to gain molecular-level insight. Electron density mapping revealed TGEDADPTBBA's heteroatoms served as adsorption sites. Dynamics revealed bioinspired intermolecular chemical and Van der Waals interactions facilitated stable layer formation. Energetically, TGEDADPTBBA adsorption was favorable. Collectively, this multi-pronged study employing polymer science, surface science, and computational chemistry demonstrated TGEDADPTBBA's broad applicability as a corrosion inhibitor for E24 carbon steel infrastructure. In particular, TGEDADPTBBA's synergistic performance in inhibiting charge transfer, diffusion, and film formation positions it as a green and cost-effective alternative to toxic chromates.
Robotics in Bariatric Surgery: Benefits, Limitations, and Challenges; An Umbrella Review of systematic reviews and meta-analyses
Authors: Bassiony Mahmoud , Ramadan Alaa , Anwar Almoatazbellah , Said AbdulRahman , Sedik Ragab
Published: September 2023

Background: In order to improve the results of weight loss surgeries, robotics in bariatric surgery is a quickly developing method that combines the accuracy and dexterity of robotic technology with the knowledge of surgeons. Surgeons may carry out difficult bariatric procedures with greater accuracy, less invasiveness, and better visualization when using robotic equipment. This review aims to provide wide evidence regarding the benefits, limitations, and challenges of robotics in bariatric surgery.
Methods: A comprehensive search was conducted across multiple databases, namely PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Cochrane Central, in order to identify all relevant systematic reviews and meta-analyses from the inception of these databases until July 15, 2023. The quality assessment of the included studies was performed using the AMSTAR2 tool, and the data analysis was conducted using STATA version 17.
Results: A total of 11 studies, of which 8 were eligible for the analysis. Our findings demonstrated a notable reduction in the occurrence of postoperative complications (OR: 0.88, 95% CI [0.66 to 1.10], P=0.00) as well as a decrease in the occurrence of anastomotic leaks (OR: 0.82, 95% CI [0.55 to 1.10], P=0.00) among patients who underwent robotic bariatric surgery (RBS) in comparison to those who received laparoscopic bariatric surgery (LBS).
Conclusion: robotic bariatric surgery may be a promising technique to decrease most postoperative outcomes compared to the traditional technique. However, further research is needed to fully understand the long-term benefits and cost-effectiveness of this technology.
Therapeutic Effect of Knee Extension Exercise with Single-Joint Hybrid Assistive Limb Following Total Knee Arthroplasty: A Prospective, Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Maeda Takaya , Sasaki Eiji , Kasai Takayuki , Igarashi Shigesato , Wakai Yuji , Sasaki Tomoyuki , Tsuda Eiichi , Ishibashi Yasuyuki
Published: September 2023

The single-joint hybrid assistive limb (HAL-SJ), an exoskeletal robotic suit, offers functional improvement. In this prospective randomized controlled trial, we investigated the therapeutic effects of knee extension exercises using the HAL-SJ after total knee arthroplasty (TKA). Seventy-six patients with knee osteoarthritis were randomly assigned to HAL-SJ or conventional physical therapy (CPT) groups. The HAL-SJ group underwent exercise using the HAL-SJ for 10 days postoperatively, in addition to CPT; the CPT group underwent only CPT. Pain intensity and active and passive knee extension angles were evaluated preoperatively and on postoperative days 1–10 and weeks 2 and 4. Performance tests and Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Scores (KOOS) were evaluated preoperatively and at postoperative weeks 2 and 4. Statistical analysis showed that the HAL-SJ group significantly reduced pain intensity and improved active and passive knee extension angles compared with the CPT group. The HAL-SJ group showed immediate improvement in knee extension angle through day 5. There were no significant differences in results between the performance tests and KOOS. Knee extension exercises with the HAL-SJ improved knee pain and the angle of extension in the acute phase after TKA.
Study and optimization of the UV/H2O2 process to treat contaminated wastewater coming from a pesticide formulation plant
Authors: Lescano Maia Raquel , Fussoni Nerina Belén , Vidal Eduardo Gabriel , Zalazar Cristina Susana
Published: September 2023

In the present work, the UV/H2O2 process was applied to evaluate the degradation of an industrial wastewater coming from a pesticide formulation plant. Commercial pesticides were added to reach an approximate initial value of Total Organic Carbon (TOC) and Carbon Oxygen Demand (COD) of 70 and 160 mg L− 1 respectively. Five pesticides were evaluated: atrazine, prometryn, imidacloprid, glyphosate and carbendazim. pH and R (ratio between initial H2O2 and initial TOC concentrations in mM) were varied in three levels: 3, 5.5, 8 and 2, 5, 8 respectively. TOC was measured as the response. The process was optimized employing the Response Surface Methodology (RSM). The obtained optimal conditions were: pH = 6.05 and R = 4.66 rendering a predicted TOC conversion of 74.70%. The experimental run under these conditions led to a TOC conversion of 78%. Glyphosate, atrazine and imidacloprid were completely removed while carbendazim was removed around 90% and prometryn at about 80%. Also, a significant decrease in COD was observed (around 82%) and the phytotoxicity assay showed that, at the end of the treatment, the sample was not phytotoxic. It can be concluded that the process can be satisfactorily modeled and optimized being efficient to treat this kind of wastewater.
FFA-GPT: an Interactive Visual Question Answering System for Fundus Fluorescein Angiography
Authors: Shi Danli , Chen Xiaolan , Zhang Weiyi , Xu Pusheng , Zhao Ziwei , Zheng Yingfeng , He Mingguang
Published: September 2023

Background: While large language models (LLMs) have demonstrated impressive capabilities in question-answering (QA) tasks, their utilization in analyzing ocular imaging data remains limited. We aim to develop an interactive system that harnesses LLMs for report generation and visual question answering in the context of fundus fluorescein angiography (FFA).Methods: Our system comprises two components: an image-text alignment module for report generation and a GPT-based module (Llama 2) for interactive QA. To comprehensively assess the system's performance, we conducted both automatic and manual evaluations. The automatic evaluation encompassed language-based metrics (BLEU, CIDEr, ROUGE, SPICE) and classification-based metrics (accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, precision, F1-score). Additionally, three ophthalmologists participated in a manual assessment, evaluating the completeness and correctness of generated reports, as well as accuracy, completeness, and potential harm of generated answers.Results: Model development leveraged a dataset of 654,343 FFA images from 9,392 participants. In the automatic evaluation of generated reports, our system demonstrated satisfactory performance, yielding scores of BLEU1 = 0.48, BLEU2 = 0.42, BLEU3 = 0.38, BLEU4 = 0.34, CIDEr = 0.33, ROUGE = 0.36, and SPICE = 0.18. Notably, the top five conditions exhibited strong specificity (≥ 0.94) and accuracy (ranging from 0.88 to 0.91), with F1-scores spanning from 0.66 to 0.82. The manual assessment revealed that the generated reports were on par with the ground truth reports, with 68.3% achieving high accuracy and 62.3% achieving high completeness. In the manual QA evaluation, the consensus among the three ophthalmologists was that the majority of answers were characterized by high accuracy, completeness, and safety (70.7% as error-free, 84.0% as complete, and 93.7% as harmless). Notably, substantial agreement was observed among the ophthalmologists both in the evaluation of generated reports and answers, as reflected by kappa values ranging from 0.739 to 0.834.Conclusions: This study introduces an innovative framework that merges multi-modal transformers and LLMs, yielding enhancements in ophthalmic image interpretation. Moreover, the system facilitates dynamic communication between ophthalmologists and patients through interactive capabilities, heralding a new era of collaborative diagnostic processes.
Evaluation of the stress levels of different implant treatment options in extremely atrophic maxillae by finite element analysis method
Authors: KUZU Turan Emre , ÖZTÜRK Kübra
Published: September 2023

Background
Atrophy occurs in the alveolar bone in parallel with the duration of bone loss. Our study aimed to evaluate the stress levels in three different treatment options for the atrophic maxilla and to analyze these values to determine the most effective treatment method for patients.
Methods
In this study, analyses were performed using the finite element method. The study groups were as follows. 1-Four extra maxillary zygomatic implants (quad zygoma) located in the canine and six regions, respectively, in each half jaw, metal-supported porcelain prosthetic restoration. 2- After iliac bone augmentation, they will be in the canine and number six regions and all-on 4 implants and metal-supported porcelain prosthetic restoration. 3- Titanium subperiosteal implant placement and metal-supported porcelain prosthetic restoration. In this study, chewing forces of 50 N were experimentally created on the implants in all groups, 150 N obliquely in the vertical direction. In the models created, minimum stresses in the cortical bone and minimum and maximum principal stresses in the spongiose bone were observed. The Von Mises Stress values of the implants and abutments were analyzed.
Results
Stress in the alveolar bone remained within the physiological limits of the bone. However, it was determined that Group 3 created less stress on the alveolar bone than the other groups. When the Von Mises Stress values on the implants and abutments were examined, it was determined that Group 1 had the highest Von Mises Stress values, followed by Group 2, and Group 3 had the lowest Von Mises Stress values. When the stresses occurring in the prosthetic restoration were evaluated, similar results were observed.
Conclusions
When the stresses coming to the alveolar bone, the stresses to the implant and the stresses to the prosthetic superstructure are examined together in the study, the most advantageous group is 2.
Renal tissue oxygenation and development of AKI in preterm neonates
Authors: Condit Paige , Chuck Jennifer , Lasarev Michael , Chock Valerie , Harer Matthew
Published: September 2023

Objective: To evaluate the relationship between regional renal saturation of oxygen (RrSO2) changes and serum creatinine (SCr) during the first week of age for preterm neonates.
Design: Prospectively measured neonatal RrSO2 values collected during the first week of age in neonates. Acute kidney injury (AKI) was defined by the neonatal modified Kidney Disease: Improving Global Outcomes (KDIGO) criteria. Variables were compared between groups.
Results: 109 neonates were included and 561 SCr values were obtained. 8 participants developed AKI by SCr criteria. A 10-percentage point increase in mean %RrSO2 was associated with a 40% decrease in risk of AKI (95%CI: 9.6–61%; p = 0.016).
Conclusions: Increases in mean %RrSO2 in neonates born at < 32 weeks GA were associated with a decreased risk of AKI. These findings support the design of further prospective trials utilizing renal NIRS monitoring to evaluate new therapies or clinical protocols to prevent and treat neonatal AKI.
Cholangitis with bacteremia due to Pseudomonas nitroreducens in a patient with pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors: A case report
Authors: Itoh Naoya , Akazawa Nana , Yamaguchi Makoto , Murakami Hiromi , Ohkusu Kiyofumi
Published: September 2023

Background: Pseudomonas nitroreducens is a non-fermenting, gram-negative, rod-shaped bacterium commonly inhabiting soil, particularly soil contaminated with oil brine. To our knowledge, no cases of human infection with P. nitroreducens have been previously reported. Here, we present the first documented case of cholangitis caused by P. nitroreducens in a patient with bacteremia.
Case presentation: A 46-year-old Japanese man with an advanced pancreatic neuroendocrine tumor was hospitalized with fever and chills. Four days before admission, the patient developed right upper abdominal pain. Two days later, he experienced fever and chills. Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography was performed on the day of admission, and the patient was diagnosed with cholangitis associated with stent dysfunction. Gram-negative rods were isolated from blood cultures, but attempts to identify the bacteria using VITEK2 and matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS) with VITEK MS ver. 4.7.1 (bioMérieux Japan Co. Ltd., Tokyo, Japan) were unsuccessful. Finally, the organism was identified as P. nitroreducens using MALDI-TOF MS with a MALDI Biotyper (Bruker Daltonics Co., Ltd., Billerica, MA, USA) and 16S ribosomal RNA sequencing. Despite thorough careful interviews, the patient had no exposure to contaminated soil. The patient was treated with intravenous cefepime and oral ciprofloxacin for 16 days based on susceptibility results, with good therapeutic outcome. At the outpatient follow-up on day 28, the patient was in good general condition.
Conclusions: This is the first reported human case of cholangitis with bloodstream infection caused by P. nitroreducens. This report provides clinicians with novel insights into the clinical manifestations and diagnostic methods necessary for the accurate diagnosis of P. nitroreducens, along with guidance on treatment.
Yield Gap and Water and Fertilizer Use Efficiency Gap for Maize on the Upland China
Authors: Wang Shuying , Fan Tinglu , Zhao Gang , Ma Mingsheng , Cheng Wanli , Li Shangzhong , Dang Yi , Wang Lei , Zhang Jianjun , Zhou Gang , Li Xingmao , Ni Shengli
Published: September 2023

Maize (Zea mays L.) is one of the main agricultural crops with the largest yield and acreage in the Upland China. The improvement of the yield and yield gap(YG) of Maize has been receiving increasing research attention. This study offers a theoretical foundation for enhancing maize yield and optimizing water use efficiencie (WUE) and fertilizer use efficiencies in major grain-producing regions. It specifically investigated the impact of various cultivation methods on maize yield and the WUE and fertilizer use efficiency in the arid regions of Gansu, ultimately identifying the most effective modes of cultivation. This study was conducted in the regions of Zhenyuan and Dingxi, Gansu Province, China, from 2018 to 2020. Dryland maize comprised four modes of cultivation management for planting density, fertilizer application, and mulching method—basic yield level (CK), farmer level (FP), high yield and high-efficiency level (HH), and super high yield level (SH). YSH, YHH, YFP, and YCK comprised 32.57%, 45.00%, 56.50%, and 67.03% (Zhenyuan) and 47.97%, 58.52%, 63.94%, and 80.06% (Dingxi) of YHR. The YG between maximum yield (YHR) and SH yield (YSH), YSH and HH yield(YHH), YHH and FP yield(YFP), and YFP and CK yield(YCK) were found to be 11.89t.ha-2 , 2.56t.ha-2 , 2.54t.ha-2 , 2.95t.ha-2. The current uncontrollable factor contribution rate for the YG was 59.12%, the contribution rate of the controllable factor for the yield gap was 40.88%. This indicates a huge scope for improvement in the maize yield per unit area in Gansu. The water use efficiency gap (WG) between SH and HH, HH and FP, and FP and CK were 7.15kg.mm-1. ha-2 , 4.34kg.mm-1 .ha-2 and 10.52kg.mm-1 .ha-2. The nitrogen partial productivity gap (PFPGN) between SH and HH, and HH and FP were determined to be 5.41kg.kg-1 and 13.13kg.kg-1 , respectively, while the phosphorus partial productivity gap (PFPGP) was 9.46kg.kg-1 and 21.43kg.kg-1. The YG exhibited a positive correlation with the WUEG while demonstrating a negative correlation with both the PFPGN and PFPGP. Among the different regions studied, Gansu Province demonstrated the highest yield and WUE for upland maize under super-high-yield conditions. The study revealed that the highest partial productivity of nitrogen and phosphate fertilizers was observed at the farmer level. Consequently, it is imperative to enhance fertilizer use efficiency in SH and HH modes to achieve further increases in crop yield. This improvement is particularly crucial for dry maize production, as it plays a significant role in safeguarding national food security.
Sentiment Analysis of Tweets Using Logistic Regression and Neural Networks with Emojis and Emoticons
Authors: KARTHIKEYA KONATHALA , YASWANTHI KANDIMALLA , SAI EMMELA JAINENDRA , Pradeepini G. , KIRAN YARABARLA N V N A SAI , Bulla Suneetha
Published: September 2023

Emojis and emoticons have become ubiquitous in digital communication, providing additional cues for sentiment analysis beyond just the text. This paper explores sentiment analysis specifically using emojis and emoticons in text data. We conduct experiments to determine the impact of emojis and emoticons on sentiment classification performance. Models are developed using a benchmark Twitter dataset labeled for sentiment. We compare models trained on just text data versus models trained on text data enhanced with emojis and emoticons. Results demonstrate that incorporating emoji and emoticon features leads to significant gains in sentiment classification accuracy. Further analysis provides insights into the most informative emoji and emoticon features for sentiment analysis. The findings suggest emojis and emoticons should be considered as important features in sentiment analysis systems dealing with informal digital text.
Determination of space-time-dependent source terms in the integer-fractional mobile-immobile solute transport system
Authors: Yu Chengyuan , Liu Wenyi , Li Gongsheng
Published: September 2023

We consider a numerical inversion problem of determining two space-time-dependent source terms in the integer-fractional mobile-immobile solute transport model by using the Dirichlet-Neumann boundary data. The unique existence of a solution to the forward problem is obtained by the inverse Laplace transform, and a dynamical system connecting the known data with the unknown sources is established by the variational method and boundary homogenization. The dynamical system is discretized to a linear system at given time in the homogenized polynomial space, and the source functions can be reconstructed by the alternative iteration and Tikhonov regularization. Two examples are presented to illustrate the validness of the inversion algorithm.
MSC(2010) 35R11; 35R30; 65N21
A Bayesian identification framework for stochastic nonlinear dynamic systems based on a new likelihood approximation
Authors: Pandey Pushpa , Khodaparast Hamed Haddad , Friswell Michael Ian , Chatterjee Tanmoy , Madinei Hadi , Deighan Tom
Published: September 2023

The paper introduces a Bayesian framework in conjunction with Markov Chain Monte Carlo (MCMC) sampling for parameter estimation in nonlinear stochastic dynamic systems. The proposed methodology is applied to both numerical and experimental cases. The paper commences by introducing Bayesian inference and its constituents: the likelihood function, prior distribution, and posterior distribution. Resonant decay method is employed to extract backbone curves, which capture the nonlinear behavior of the system. A mathematical model based on a single degree of freedom (SDOF) system is formulated, and backbone curves are obtained from time response data. Subsequently, MCMC sampling is employed to estimate the parameters using both numerical and experimental data. The obtained results demonstrate the convergence of the Markov chain, present parameter trace plots, and provide estimates of posterior distributions of updated parameters along with their uncertainties. Experimental validation is performed on a cantilever beam system equipped with permanent magnets and electromagnets. The proposed methodology demonstrates promising results in accurately estimating parameters of stochastic nonlinear dynamical systems. Through the use of proposed likelihood functions grounded in backbone curves, the probability distributions of both linear and nonlinear parameters are simultaneously identified. Based on this view, the necessity to segregate stochastic linear and nonlinear model updating is eliminated.
Non-interventional weight changes are associated with alterations in uric acid levels
Authors: Weinstein Shiri , Maor Elad , Kaplan Alon , Hod Tammy , Leibowitz Avshalom , Grossman Ehud , Shlomai Gadi
Published: September 2023

Background
uric acid is an emerging cardiovascular risk factor. Obesity is associated with higher serum UA.
Objective
we aimed to assess whether non-interventional weight changes affect serum UA.
Design
a retrospective analysis of subjects referred to annual medical screening. Body mass index (BMI) and uric acid were measured annually.
Participants
19,193 patients were divided to five groups according to the change in BMI between visits (large reduction, moderate reduction, unchanged, moderate increase, and large increase).
Main Measure
the primary outcome was the change in uric acid levels between visits.
Key Results
uric acid levels were progressively lower or higher as BMI decreased or increased, respectively. The proportion of patients with at least 10% rise in uric acid progressively increased with the relative increase in BMI, while the proportion of patients with at least 10% decrease in uric acid decreased with the relative increase in BMI.
Conclusions
even modest non interventional weight changes are associated with serum uric acid.
Causal effect of serum magnesium on the risk of 9 respiratory diseases: a Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Zhang Jingtao , Li Yang , Huang Zhaohao , Chen Zhiguo , Wu Xuxing , Zou Wei
Published: September 2023

Objective: Although the association between serum magnesium and respiratory diseases has been explored, the causal effects of serum magnesium on respiratory diseases are largely unknown. Here we performed a Mendelian randomization(MR) analysis to investigate the association between serum magnesium concentrations and risk of 9 respiratory diseases.
Methods: Mendelian randomization was conducted using single-nucleotide polymorphisms(SNPs) associated with serum magnesium as instrumental variables.To select SNPs, we used publicly available summary-level data from Genome-wide association studies (GWASs). We used inverse-variance weighted (IVW), weighted median, MR-Egger regression approaches in this analysis.The IVW method was used in the primary analysis to obtain the causal estimates.
Results: Genetically predicted serum magnesium was inversely associated with the risk of asthma.The odds ratios in genetically predicted serum magnesium concentrations was 0.229 (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.065-0.806; p=0.022),which was further confirmed by multiple sensitivity analyses. Other diseases such as pulmonary embolism, lobar pneumonia, COVID-19, lung adenocarcinoma, lung squamous cell carcinoma, bronchiectasis, tuberculosis and interstitial lung disease did not yield statistically significant results.
Conclusions: High genetically predicted serum magnesium was causally associated with a decreased risk of asthma and suggested that serum magnesium concentrations may be crucial to prevent the onset of asthma.