bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Detection of allele-specific expression in spatial transcriptomics with spASE
Authors: Zou Luli S. , Cable Dylan M. , Barrera-Lopez Irving A. , Zhao Tongtong , Murray Evan , Aryee Martin J. , Chen Fei , Irizarry Rafael A.
Published: July 2024

Spatial transcriptomics technologies permit the study of the spatial distribution of RNA at near-single-cell resolution genome-wide. However, the feasibility of studying spatial allele-specific expression (ASE) from these data remains uncharacterized. Here, we introduce spASE, a computational framework for detecting and estimating spatial ASE. To tackle the challenges presented by cell type mixtures and a low signal to noise ratio, we implement a hierarchical model involving additive mixtures of spatial smoothing splines. We apply our method to allele-resolved Visium and Slide-seq from the mouse cerebellum and hippocampus and report new insight into the landscape of spatial and cell type-specific ASE therein.
YTHDC1 aggravates high glucose-induced retinal vascular endothelial cell injury via m6A modification of CDK6
Authors: Zhou Qi , Tian Min , Cao Yang , Tang Min , Xiang Xiaohong , Guo Lu , Lv Hongbin
Published: July 2024

Objective

Retinal vascular endothelial cell (RVECs) injury is a major cause of morbidity and mortality among the patients with diabetes. RVECs dysfunction is the predominant pathological manifestation of vascular complication in diabetic retinopathy. N6-methyladenosine (m6A) serves as the most prevalent modification in eukaryotic mRNAs. However, the role of m6A RNA modification in RVECs dysfunction is still unclear.

Methods

RT-qPCR analysis and western blot were conducted to detect the change of m6A RNA modification in diabetic retinopathy. CCK-8 assay, transwell experiment, wound healing assay, tube formation experiment, m6A-IP-qPCR were performed to determine the role of YTHDC1 in RVECs. Retinal trypsin digestion test and H&E staining were used to evaluate histopathological changes.

Results

The levels of m6A RNA methylation were significantly up-regulated in HG-induced RVECs, which were caused by increased expression of YTHDC1. YTHDC1 regulated the viability, proliferation, migration and tube formation ability in vitro. YTHDC1 overexpression impaired RVECs function by repressing CDK6 expression, which was mediated by YTHDC1-dependent mRNA decay. Moreover, it showed sh-YTHDC1 inhibited CDK6 nuclear export. Sh-YTHDC1 promotes the mRNA degradation of CDK6 in the nucleus but does not affect the cytoplasmic CDK6 mRNA. In vivo experiments showed that overexpression of CDK6 reversed the protective effect of sh-YTHDC1 on STZ-induced retinal tissue damage.

Conclusion

YTHDC1-mediated m6A methylation regulates diabetes-induced RVECs dysfunction. YTHDC1-CDK6 signaling axis could be therapeutically targeted for treating DR.
First instar and adult male bed bugs, Cimex lectularius (Hemiptera: Cimicidae), increase feeding activity in the presence of adult females
Authors: Crawley Sydney E. , Borden John H. , Ritchey Josiah P. , Haynes Kenneth F.
Published: July 2024

Background

Bed bugs, Cimex lectularius, form day-time aggregations from which they depart at night to feed on human blood. Obtaining an initial blood meal is a critical step in the development of first instars. Previous research had shown that first instars had greater success in obtaining this essential meal when in the presence of adults than when they were alone.

Methods

Feeding by bed bugs was tested in upright vertical cylindrical chambers fitted with a paper ramp to aid in climbing toward a blood feeder suspended across the upper end of the cylinder. Feeding success by the first instars was tested when they were alone in the chamber or when they were in the presence of adult females, males, or both together. 

Results

The mean proportions of the first instars that fed were significantly higher when they were confined with adults of both sexes or adult females than when they were confined alone or with males. Feeding by adult males was also enhanced by confinement with females. When first instars and adult females were confined together, the mean duration before first instars began feeding was longer than for females. There was no difference in feeding success by first instars confined with their mothers or nonmothers.

Conclusions

Elevated feeding by first instars and adult males in the presence of females may be adaptive traits that enhance fitness. First instars must feed to avoid dehydration and starvation and to obtain resources needed for development. Adult males would benefit not only by increased feeding success but also by greater likelihood of finding a recently engorged female with which to mate. The lack of any difference in feeding success of first instars in the presence of their mothers or nonmothers argues against parental care in this species.

Graphical Abstract
Facilitators, barriers, and changes in POCUS use: longitudinal follow-up after participation in a national point-of-care ultrasound training course in Japan
Authors: Yamada Toru , Soni Nilam J. , Minami Taro , Kitano Yuka , Yoshino Shumpei , Mabuchi Suguru , Hashimoto Masayoshi
Published: July 2024

Background

POCUS training courses are effective at improving knowledge and skills, but few studies have followed learners longitudinally post-course to understand facilitators, barriers, and changes in POCUS use in clinical practice. We conducted a prospective observational study of physicians who attended 11 standardized POCUS training courses between 2017 and 2019 in Japan. Physicians who attended a standardized POCUS course were surveyed about their current frequency of POCUS use of the heart, lung, abdomen, and lower extremity veins, and perceived barriers and facilitators to POCUS use in clinical practice.

Results

Data were analyzed from 112 completed surveys (response rate = 20%). A majority of responding physicians were faculty (77%) in internal medicine (69%) affiliated with community hospitals (55%). The mean delay between course attendance and survey response was 50.3 months. A significant increase in POCUS use from < 1 to ≥ 1 time per week was seen for all organ systems after 50 months post-course (p < 0.01). Approximately half of course participants reported an increase in the frequency of cardiac (61%), lung (53%), vascular (44%), and abdominal (50%) ultrasound use. General facilitators of POCUS use were easy access to ultrasound machines (63%), having a colleague with whom to learn POCUS (47%), and adequate departmental support (46%). General barriers included lack of opportunities for POCUS training (47%), poor access to ultrasound machines (38%), and limited time for POCUS training (33%). In the group with increased POCUS usage, specific facilitators reported were enhanced POCUS knowledge, improved image acquisition skills, and greater self-confidence in performing POCUS. Conversely, the group without increased POCUS usage reported lack of supervising physicians, low confidence, and insufficient training opportunities as specific barriers.

Conclusions

Approximately half of physicians reported an increase in cardiac, lung, vascular, and abdominal POCUS use > 4 years after attending a POCUS training course. In addition to improving access to ultrasound machines and training opportunities, a supportive local clinical environment, including colleagues to share experiences in learning POCUS and local experts to supervise scanning, is important to foster ongoing POCUS practice and implementation into clinical practice.
Diffuse pulmonary arteriovenous malformation presenting with secondary polycythemia and headaches: a case report
Authors: Ahmed Salaar , Ansari Amna Irfan , Khan Abdullah Saeed , Khan Javaid Ahmed
Published: July 2024

Background

Pulmonary arteriovenous malformations are a relatively uncommon medical condition, affecting roughly 1 in every 2500 individuals. Of those suffering from pulmonary arteriovenous malformations, 80% have an underlying genetic condition: hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia.

Case presentation

We present the case of a 20-year-old Pakistani male with a history of persistent slower-onset frontal headaches that increased in severity within the course of the day. His hemoglobin was 18 g/dl, indicating polycythemia, for which he had undergone seven venesections in a month previously. His physical examination was unremarkable. His computed tomography scan depicted multiple dilated tortuous vessels with branching linear opacities in the right lower lobe of the lungs. The multiple feeding arteries were supplied by the right main pulmonary artery, and the large draining veins led to the right inferior pulmonary vein. This was identified as a diffuse pulmonary arteriovenous malformation. He was recommended for a right pulmonary artery angiogram. It showed multiple tortuous vessels with a nidus and large draining veins—features of a diffuse arteriovenous malformation in the right lower lobe of the lung consistent with the computed tomography scan. Embolization of two of these vessels feeding the arteriovenous malformation was conducted, using Amplatzer Vascular plug 2, whereas multiple pushable coils (five coils) were used for embolizing the third feeding vessel. This achieved 70–80% successful embolization of right pulmonary AVM; however, some residual flow was still seen in the arteriovenous malformation given the complexity of the lesion. Immediately after, his oxygen saturation improved from 78% to 96%.

Conclusion

Diffuse pulmonary arteriovenous malformations, as seen in this patient, are rare, accounting for less than 5% of total pulmonary arteriovenous malformations diagnosed. The patient presented with a complaint of progressive frontal headaches, which can be attributed to low oxygen saturation or the presence of a cerebral arteriovenous malformation. There was no history of hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia in the patient’s family. Furthermore, although most patients with hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia and hence pulmonary arteriovenous malformation have complaints of iron-deficiency anemia, our patient in contrast was suffering from polycythemia. This can be explained as a compensatory mechanism in hypoxemic conditions. Moreover, the patient had no complaint of hemoptysis or epistaxis, giving a varied presentation in comparison with a typical pulmonary arteriovenous malformation.
Preclinical evaluation of [18F]SYN1 and [18F]SYN2, novel radiotracers for PET myocardial perfusion imaging
Authors: Krajewski Seweryn , Steczek Lukasz , Gotowicz Karina , Karczmarczyk Urszula , Towpik Joanna , Witkowska-Patena Ewa , Łyczko Krzysztof , Mazur Maciej , Kozanecki Przemysław , Włostowska Joanna , Knuuti Juhani , Dziuk Mirosław , Garnuszek Piotr , Kozanecki Cezary
Published: July 2024

Background

Positron emission tomography (PET) is now an established diagnostic method for myocardial perfusion imaging (MPI) in coronary artery disease, which is the main cause of death globally. The available tracers show several limitations, therefore, the 18F-labelled tracer is in high demand nowadays. The preclinical studies on normal Wistar rats aimed to characterise two potential, novel radiotracers, [18F]SYN1 and [18F]SYN2, to evaluate which is a better candidate for PET MPI cardiotracer.

Results

The dynamic microPET images showed rapid myocardial uptake for both tracers. However, the uptake was higher and also stable for [18F]SYN2, with an average standardized uptake value of 3.8. The biodistribution studies confirmed that [18F]SYN2 uptake in the cardiac muscle was high and stable (3.02%ID/g at 15 min and 2.79%ID/g at 6 h) compared to [18F]SYN1 (1.84%ID/g at 15 min and 0.32%ID/g at 6 h). The critical organs determined in dosimetry studies were the small intestine and the kidneys. The estimated effective dose for humans was 0.00714 mSv/MBq for [18F]SYN1 and 0.0109 mSv/MBq for [18F]SYN2. The tested dose level of 2 mg/kg was considered to be the No Observed Adverse Effect Level (NOAEL) for both candidates. The better results were achieved for [18F]SYN2, therefore, further preclinical studies were conducted only for this tracer. Radioligand binding assays showed significant responses in 3 from 68 assays: muscarinic acetylcholine M1 and M2 receptors and potassium channel hERG. The compound was mostly metabolised via an oxidative N-dealkylation, while the fluor substituent was not separated from the molecule.

Conclusion

[18F]SYN2 showed a favourable pharmacodynamic and pharmacokinetic profile, which enabled a clear visualization of the heart in microPET. The compound was well-tolerated in studies in normal rats with moderate radiation exposure. The results encourage further exploration of [18F]SYN2 in clinical studies.
Theorizing the socio-cultural dynamics of consumer decision-making for participation in community-supported agriculture
Authors: Takagi Sota , Numazawa Yusuke , Katsube Kentaro , Omukai Wataru , Saijo Miki , Ohashi Takumi
Published: July 2024

In the context of the urgent need to establish sustainable food systems, community-supported agriculture (CSA), in which consumers share risks with producers, has gained increasing attention. Understanding the factors that influence consumer participation in CSA is crucial, yet the complete picture and interrelations of these factors remain unclear in existing studies. This research adopts a scoping review and the KJ method to elucidate the factors influencing consumer participation in CSA and to theorize consumer participation. In particular, we focus on the dynamics of individual decision-making for participation, under the premise that individuals are embedded in socio-cultural environments. We examine the decision-making process based on the seesaw of expected gains and losses from participation, along with the reflexivity to the individual and the process of updating decision-making post-participation. Our study highlights how individual decision-making for participation is influenced by relationships with others within the embedded socio-cultural environment, as well as by attachment and connection to the community. It also shows that discrepancies between expectations and experiences post-participation, and the transformation of the social capital, promote the updating of decision-making processes. In addition, among the factors identified in this study for participation in CSA, the decision to participate was heavily influenced by expectations of “variety of ingredients,” suggesting that other factors such as “food education and learning opportunities,” “contribution to environmental and social issues,” and “connections with people and nature” had little impact. Although there are limitations, the insights gained from this study offer profound implications for stakeholders and provide valuable insights for more sustainable and efficient CSA practices.
Implementation factors of tuberculosis control program in primary healthcare settings in China: a mixed-methods using the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research framework
Authors: Zhou Jiani , Yuan Quan , Huang Qingning , Wang Qingya , Huang Hexiang , Chen Wei , Wang Geng , Liu Shili , Zhang Ting , Zhao Xi , Li Ying
Published: July 2024

Background

Tuberculosis (TB) is a major cause of death worldwide, and Chinese TB burden ranked the second globally. Chinese primary healthcare (PHC) sectors implement the TB Control Program (TCP) to improve active case finding, referral, treatment adherence, and health education. This study aimed to identify barriers and enablers of TCP implementation in high TB burden regions of West China.

Methods

We conducted a representative study using mixed-methods in 28 counties or districts in Chongqing Municipality and Guizhou Province of West China from October 2021 to May 2022. Questionnaire surveys and semi-structured in-depth interviews were conducted with 2720 TB healthcare workers (HCWs) and 20 interviewees in PHC sectors. Descriptive statistical analysis was used to investigate TB HCWs’ characteristics, and path analysis model was utilized to analyze the impact of associated factors on TCP implementation. Thematic framework analysis was developed with the guide of the adapted Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR) on factors of TCP implementation.

Results

This study found that 84.6% and 94.1% of community and village HCWs had low professional titles. Based on the results of multiple regression analysis and correlation analysis, lower TB core knowledge scores (-0.09) were identified as barriers for TCP implementation in community PHC sectors, and low working satisfaction (-0.17) and low working willingness (-0.10) are barriers for TPC implementation in village PHC sectors. The results of in-depth interviews reported barriers in all domains and enablers in four domains of CFIR. There were identified 19 CFIR constructs associated with TCP implementation, including 22 barriers such as HCWs’ heavy workload, and 12 enablers such as HCWs’ passion towards TCP planning.

Conclusions

With the guide of the CFIR framework, complex factors (barriers and enablers) of TCP implementation in PHC sectors of West China were explored, which provided important evidences to promote TB program in high TB burden regions. Further implementation studies to translate those factors into implementation strategies are urgent needed.

Graphical Abstract
A study on chromium thin film with positive photoresist as a masking layer towards the wet bulk micromachining of Borofloat glass
Authors: Sahu Vishal , Dewangan Priyanka , Vardhan Robbi Vivek , Rinfela Vanlal , Menon P. Krishna , Pal Prem
Published: July 2024

Bulk micromachining is commonly used to fabricate microstructures such as deep cavities, through-holes, and microchannels in glass wafers, which have diverse applications in the areas of science and technology. The methods for glass bulk micromachining include mechanical, dry, and wet etching; among them, wet etching is widely used due to its multifaceted advantages. Masking layer plays an eminent role in wet etching. In the current study, Cr thin film combined with positive photoresist (AZ1512HS) is investigated as the masking layer to develop deep cavities in Borofloat glass wafers via wet etching route. Initially, DC magnetron sputtered Cr thin film is deposited at room temperature, 200 °C, and 400 °C, respectively, on three different glass wafers, followed by spin coating of photoresist on it. Photolithography process is used for patterning, and then selective etching of Cr is performed. Thereafter, wet etching of glass wafers is executed in 10% hydrofluoric acid (HF) solution. This work shows that the sustainability of the masking layer is highly dependent on the deposition temperature of Cr thin film, and the sustainability increases with the increase in the deposition temperature. The high temperature (400 °C) deposited Cr thin film along with photoresist exhibits superior sustainability as a masking layer, and it relatively provides a longer etch time of 380 min, excellent etch depth of  ~  245 µm with negligible surface defects and well-defined structures on glass wafer when etched in 10% HF solution.
Clear aligner therapy practices among orthodontists practicing in Canada
Authors: Miranda e Paulo Djessyca , Moreira-Santos Letícia Fernanda , Tavares Maisa Costa , Weir Tony , Meade Maurice J. , Flores-Mir Carlos
Published: July 2024

Background

The acceptability and preference for clear aligner therapy (CAT) has been increasing among orthodontists, but there is still a lack of consensus regarding CAT best practices. Consequently, this study aimed to investigate CAT practices among orthodontists practicing in Canada.

Methods

The survey was conducted among orthodontists practicing in Canada using a modified previously published survey. Sixty orthodontists participated (6.1% response rate). It consisted of 11 sections with open and closed questions related to demographic information and particularities about using or not using CAT. The survey responses were exported from REDCap to a Microsoft Excel (Microsoft, Redmond, Wash) spreadsheet, then statistically analyzed using SPSS software (SPSS for Windows, version 21.0; IBM Inc., Armonk, NY, USA). The comments were categorized under themes and subthemes. Data were organized in descriptive statistics, expressing frequencies and percentages.

Results

Almost 30% of the orthodontist’s annual caseload was treated with CAT, most frequently prescribed to adult patients. Case complexity and patient cooperation were the factors that most influenced the decision to prescribe CAT. Almost half of orthodontists reported sometimes combining CAT with adjunctive fixed appliances.

Conclusions

Most orthodontists prescribe CAT, and its use is based on the malocclusion’s complexity. Orthodontists who do not prescribe CAT believe that fixed appliance therapy has superior treatment outcomes.
Designing chatbots in language classrooms: an empirical investigation from user learning experience
Authors: Wiboolyasarin Watcharapol , Wiboolyasarin Kanokpan , Tiranant Phornrat , Boonyakitanont Poomipat , Jinowat Nattawut
Published: July 2024

Amidst the technological evolution shaping the landscape of education, this research critically examines the imperative factors influencing the design of language-teaching chatbots in Thai language classrooms. Employing a comprehensive two-pronged methodology, our study delves into the intricacies of chatbot design by engaging with a diverse participant pool of pre-service teachers, in-service teachers, and educators. The study included the chatbot design opinion survey, a validated scale assessing attitudes toward chatbot design, and semi-structured interviews with teachers, educators, and experts to offer qualitative insights. Our findings reveal five key factors influencing chatbot design: learner autonomy and self-directed learning, content and interaction design for language skill development, implementation and usage considerations, alternative learning approaches and flexibility, and content presentation and format. Concurrently, thematic analysis of interviews results in five overarching themes: enhancing interactive language learning, motivational learning experience, inclusive language learning journey, blended learning companion, and communicative proficiency coaching. These findings inform the development of effective chatbots for Thai language classrooms within the evolving landscape of technology-driven education. These findings inform the development of effective chatbots for language classrooms within the evolving landscape of technology-driven education.
Ventriculo-arterial (VA) coupling and fQRS as new selection criteria for primary prevention ICD placement
Authors: Engstrom Nathan , Letson Hayley L. , Ng Kevin , Dobson Geoffrey P.
Published: July 2024

For decades, left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF < 35%) has been a mainstay for identifying heart failure (HF) patients most likely to benefit from an implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD). However, LVEF is a poor predictor of sudden cardiac death (SCD) and ignores 50% of HF patients with mildly reduced and preserved LVEF. The current international guidelines for primary prophylaxis ICD therapy are inadequate. Instead of LVEF, which is not a good measure of LV contractility or hemodynamic characterization, we hypothesize ventriculo-arterial (VA) coupling combined with fragmented QRS (fQRS) will improve risk stratification and patient suitability for an ICD. Quantifying cardiac and aortic mechanics, and predicting active arrhythmogenic substrate, from varying fQRS morphologies, may help to stratify ischemic and non-ischemic patients with different functional capacities and predisposition for lethal arrhythmias. We propose HF patients with a low physiological reserve may not benefit from ICD therapy, whereas those patients with higher reserves and extensive arrhythmogenic substrate may benefit. Our hypothesis combining VA coupling with fQRS changes has the potential to widen HF patient participation (low and high LVEF) and advance personalized medicine for HF patients at high risk of SCD.
Smart decision support system for keratoconus severity staging using corneal curvature and thinnest pachymetry indices
Authors: Muhsin Zahra J. , Qahwaji Rami , AlShawabkeh Mo’ath , AlRyalat Saif Aldeen , Al Bdour Muawyah , Al-Taee Majid
Published: July 2024

Background

This study proposes a decision support system created in collaboration with machine learning experts and ophthalmologists for detecting keratoconus (KC) severity. The system employs an ensemble machine model and minimal corneal measurements.

Methods

A clinical dataset is initially obtained from Pentacam corneal tomography imaging devices, which undergoes pre-processing and addresses imbalanced sampling through the application of an oversampling technique for minority classes. Subsequently, a combination of statistical methods, visual analysis, and expert input is employed to identify Pentacam indices most correlated with severity class labels. These selected features are then utilized to develop and validate three distinct machine learning models. The model exhibiting the most effective classification performance is integrated into a real-world web-based application and deployed on a web application server. This deployment facilitates evaluation of the proposed system, incorporating new data and considering relevant human factors related to the user experience.

Results

The performance of the developed system is experimentally evaluated, and the results revealed an overall accuracy of 98.62%, precision of 98.70%, recall of 98.62%, F1-score of 98.66%, and F2-score of 98.64%. The application's deployment also demonstrated precise and smooth end-to-end functionality.

Conclusion

The developed decision support system establishes a robust basis for subsequent assessment by ophthalmologists before potential deployment as a screening tool for keratoconus severity detection in a clinical setting.
Crisis in the gut: navigating gastrointestinal challenges in Gulf War Illness with bioengineering
Authors: Collier Claudia A. , Salikhova Aelita , Sabir Sufiyan , Foncerrada Steven , Raghavan Shreya A.
Published: July 2024

Gulf War Illness (GWI) is characterized by a wide range of symptoms that manifests largely as gastrointestinal symptoms. Among these gastrointestinal symptoms, motility disorders are highly prevalent, presenting as chronic constipation, stomach pain, indigestion, diarrhea, and other conditions that severely impact the quality of life of GWI veterans. However, despite a high prevalence of gastrointestinal impairments among these veterans, most research attention has focused on neurological disturbances. This perspective provides a comprehensive overview of current in vivo research advancements elucidating the underlying mechanisms contributing to gastrointestinal disorders in GWI. Generally, these in vivo and in vitro models propose that neuroinflammation alters gut motility and drives the gastrointestinal symptoms reported in GWI. Additionally, this perspective highlights the potential and challenges of in vitro bioengineering models, which could be a crucial contributor to understanding and treating the pathology of gastrointestinal related-GWI.
Determination of the frequency of individuals with broadly cross-reactive neutralizing antibodies against PRRSV in the sow population under field conditions
Authors: Plaza-Soriano Ángeles , Martínez-Lobo Francisco Javier , Garza-Moreno Laura , Castillo-Pérez Jaime , Caballero Elki , Castro José María , Simarro Isabel , Prieto Cinta
Published: July 2024

Background

Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome Virus (PRRSV) is a significant swine pathogen, yet the immune response components contributing to protection remain incompletely understood. Broadly reactive neutralizing antibodies (bNAs) may play a crucial role in preventing reinfections by heterologous viruses, although their occurrence is considered low under both field and experimental conditions. This study aimed to assess the frequency of sows exhibiting bNAs against PRRSV under field conditions and to analyze the epidemiological factors influencing the occurrence of these elite neutralizers. Blood samples were collected from breeding sows across eleven unrelated pig farms, with samples categorized by parity. Serum obtained was utilized in virus neutralization assays (VNs) against six PRRSV field isolates and two MLV strains.

Results

Approximately 7% of the sows exhibited neutralization activity against all viruses in the panel, with a geometric mean of the titer (GMT) of NAs at or exceeding 4 log2. Exclusion of the PRRSV-2 isolate from the panel increased the proportion of elite neutralizers to around 15%. Farm-specific analysis revealed significant variations in both GMT of NAs and proportion of elite neutralizers. PRRSV unstable farms and those with a PRRS outbreak in the last 12 months displayed higher GMT of NAs compared to stable farms without recent outbreaks. The GMT of NAs showed a gradual, albeit moderate, increase with the parity of the sows. Parity’s impact on bNA response was consistently observed in stable farms but not necessarily in unstable farms or those with recent outbreaks. Finally, the results indicated that vaccinated animals had higher NA titers against the vaccine virus used in the farm than against field viruses.

Conclusion

bNAs against heterologous isolates induced by PRRSV infection under field conditions are generally low, often falling below titers necessary for protection against reproductive failure. However, a subset of sows (approximately 15%) can be considered elite neutralizers, efficiently recognizing various PRRSV strains. Repeated exposures to PRRSV play a crucial role in eliciting these bNAs, with a higher frequency observed in unstable farms and those with recent outbreaks. In stable farms, parity only marginally influences bNA titers, highlighting its limited role compared to the impact of PRRSV exposure history.
Implementation of deep learning models in predicting ESG index volatility
Authors: Bhandari Hum Nath , Pokhrel Nawa Raj , Rimal Ramchandra , Dahal Keshab R. , Rimal Binod
Published: July 2024

The consideration of environmental, social, and governance (ESG) aspects has become an integral part of investment decisions for individual and institutional investors. Most recently, corporate leaders recognized the core value of the ESG framework in fulfilling their environmental and social responsibility efforts. While stock market prediction is a complex and challenging task, several factors associated with developing an ESG framework further increase the complexity and volatility of ESG portfolios compared with broad market indices. To address this challenge, we propose an integrated computational framework to implement deep learning model architectures, specifically long short-term memory (LSTM), gated recurrent unit, and convolutional neural network, to predict the volatility of the ESG index in an identical environment. A comprehensive analysis was performed to identify a balanced combination of input features from fundamental data, technical indicators, and macroeconomic factors to delineate the cone of uncertainty in market volatility prediction. The performance of the constructed models was evaluated using standard assessment metrics. Rigorous hyperparameter tuning and model-selection strategies were implemented to identify the best model. Furthermore, a series of statistical analyses was conducted to validate the robustness and reliability of the model. Experimental results showed that a single-layer LSTM model with a relatively small number of neurons provides a superior fit with high prediction accuracy relative to more complex models.
Addressing bottlenecks in Lassa fever treatment: overcoming the ribavirin parenteral formulation challenge
Authors: Lawal Qudus Olajide , Okoeguale Joseph , Oiwoh Sebastine Oseghae , Akhigbe ThankGod , Eifediyi Reuben Agbons , Okogbenin Sylvanus Akhalufo
Published: July 2024

Ribavirin ampoule formulation remains a major challenge in managing Lassa fever disease. Lassa fever is an endemic viral hemorrhagic fever in the West Africa subregion, which has high-dose ribavirin as the standard of care. The high-dose therapy required makes the 200 mg/ml ampoule dosing of ribavirin a daunting task to administer, especially during disease outbreaks. This commentary highlights the challenges and makes a passionate call for vial dosage adjustment to fit the high-dose requirement of Lassa fever disease.
Omni-dimensional dynamic convolution feature coordinate attention network for pneumonia classification
Authors: Li Yufei , Xin Yufei , Li Xinni , Zhang Yinrui , Liu Cheng , Cao Zhengwen , Du Shaoyi , Wang Lin
Published: July 2024

Pneumonia is a serious disease that can be fatal, particularly among children and the elderly. The accuracy of pneumonia diagnosis can be improved by combining artificial-intelligence technology with X-ray imaging. This study proposes X-ODFCANet, which addresses the issues of low accuracy and excessive parameters in existing deep-learning-based pneumonia-classification methods. This network incorporates a feature coordination attention module and an omni-dimensional dynamic convolution (ODConv) module, leveraging the residual module for feature extraction from X-ray images. The feature coordination attention module utilizes two one-dimensional feature encoding processes to aggregate feature information from different spatial directions. Additionally, the ODConv module extracts and fuses feature information in four dimensions: the spatial dimension of the convolution kernel, input and output channel quantities, and convolution kernel quantity. The experimental results demonstrate that the proposed method can effectively improve the accuracy of pneumonia classification, which is 3.77% higher than that of ResNet18. The model parameters are 4.45M, which was reduced by approximately 2.5 times. The code is available at https://github.com/limuni/X-ODFCANET.
Association of ARMS2, HTRA1 and CFH genes polymorphisms in patients with age-related macular degeneration in the Malaysian population
Authors: Ismail Fazliana , Junit Sarni Mat , Chin Lee Ching , Jayapalan Jaime Jacqueline , Subrayan Visvaraja
Published: July 2024

Background

Despite extensive research efforts, understanding the precise causes and molecular underpinnings of age-related macular degeneration (AMD) remains elusive. Exploring different populations becomes crucial to establish conclusive insights into the role of genetic factors in AMD.

Methodology

This study aimed to investigate the association between the well-documented major risk alleles in the HTRA1, ARMS2 and CFH genes with AMD in the Malaysian multi-ethnic population. A total of 205 subjects were enrolled in this study, 103 were diagnosed with AMD while 102 represented the control subjects. Genomic DNA was extracted from peripheral blood mononuclear cells and gene amplification was performed by polymerase chain reaction. Subsequently, genotyping for the HTRA1, ARMS2 and CFH genes was performed using direct DNA sequencing analysis.

Results

Significant associations (p < 0.05) were detected with AMD for both SNP rs11200638: G > A in the promoter of HTRA1 and rs10490924: G > T in ARMS2 but not for variant Y402H in CFH gene (p > 0.05) in our study population. The A allele frequency of rs11200638 in the HTRA1 promoter was 51.9% in cases versus 39.2% in controls (p = 0.010). The frequency of AA genotype was 28.2% for AMD cases, compared to 17.6% in controls (OR 2.58, 95% CI 1.19–5.58; p = 0.043). The frequency of the TT genotype of rs10490924 in ARMS2 was 25.2% in cases versus 8.8% in controls (OR 2.23, 95% CI 0.83–5.99; p = 0.002).

Conclusion

The study reveals an association between specific genetic variants in the HTRA1 and ARMS2 genes and the occurrence of AMD in the Malaysian population. However, contrary to expectations, the study did not identify a substantial correlation between AMD and the Y402H variant of the CFH gene in this specific population.
Surviving laryngotracheal mucormycosis: conquering central airway challenges
Authors: Agarwal Satyam , Bajad Pradeep , Pahuja Sourabh , Khanna Arjun
Published: July 2024

Laryngotracheal mucormycosis presents a rare but critical challenge, particularly in immunocompromised individuals. This report details the case of a 31-year-old diabetic male who experienced central airway obstruction due to mucormycosis. Despite the complexity of managing airway involvement, a multidisciplinary approach involving airway debridement surgery, liposomal amphotericin B, and posaconazole resulted in successful airway mucor treatment and resolution. This case underscores the importance of early recognition, aggressive intervention, and collaborative care in managing life-threatening conditions.
Artificial Hummingbird Algorithm-based fault location optimization for transmission line
Authors: Verma Sushma , Roy Provas Kumar , Mandal Barun , Mukherjee Indranil
Published: July 2024

Transmission is an important aspect regarding an effective designing of electric supply system. Ensuring reliable and fault-free transmission from the source for effective distribution to the end consumers is very much desirable. In this respect, fast and accurate fault detection, particularly in the overhead transmission lines, is very pertinent. Various algorithms and novel approaches have been formulated by various researchers aligned to this challenge. In this context, a new algorithm influenced by the biotic procedure of flight skills of hummingbird seems to be one of the best algorithms to address the cited problem. This paper focuses on the formulation of this Artificial Hummingbird Algorithm (AHA) and its high accuracy in ameliorating the fault location in transmission line. The most common flight skills being used in the algorithm are foraging schemes, which includes axial, diagonal, and omnidirectional flights. The proposed AHA has been tested using the Simulink prototype in MATLAB for an overhead transmission line having a length of 300 km and system voltage of 400 kV at suitable lengths. Specimen signal of voltages and currents waveforms has been taken at duo ends of the overhead transmission line. The results of the proposed algorithm have been compared with the results obtained from previous studies, and it has been observed that this algorithm yields better results for various kinds of asymmetrical and symmetrical faults.
Exploring the effects of post operative hyperoxic intermittent stimuli on reticulocyte levels in cancer patients: a randomized controlled study
Authors: Khalife Maher , Salvagno Michele , Sosnowski Maurice , Balestra Costantino
Published: July 2024

Background

Anemia is common among hospitalized critically ill and surgical oncological patients. The rising incidence of cancer and aggressive treatments has increased the demand for blood products, further strained by a dwindling donor pool. The normobaric oxygen paradox (NOP) has emerged as a potential avenue to increase EPO levels. While some studies support its efficacy, research remains limited in clinical settings. This study aims to assess the effectiveness of a NOP protocol in stimulating erythropoiesis, as measured by changes in reticulocyte counts, in cancer patients undergoing abdominal surgeries.

Methods

This is a post hoc analysis of a prospective, single-center, controlled, randomized study. A total of 49 patients undergoing abdominal surgery were analyzed at the Institut Jules Bordet. Adult patients admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) for at least 24 h were enrolled, excluding those with severe renal insufficiency or who received transfusions during the study period. Participants were randomized into two groups: a normobaric oxygen paradox (OXY) group who received 60% oxygen for 2 h on days 1, 3, and 5 post-surgery and a control (CTR) group who received standard care. Data on baseline characteristics, surgical details, and laboratory parameters were collected. Statistical analysis included descriptive statistics, chi-square tests,t-tests, Mann–Whitney tests, and linear and logistic regression.

Results

The final analysis included 33 patients (median age 62 [IQR 58–66], 28 (84.8%) males, with no withdrawals or deaths during the study period. No significant differences were observed in baseline surgical characteristics or perioperative outcomes between the two groups. In the OXY group (n = 16), there was a significant rise (p = 0.0237) in the percentage of reticulocyte levels in comparison to the CTR group (n = 17), with median values of 36.1% (IQR 20.3–57.8) versus − 5.3% (IQR − 19.2–57.8), respectively. The increases in hemoglobin and hematocrit levels did not significantly differ between the groups when compared to their baselines’ values.

Conclusions

This study provides preliminary evidence supporting the potential of normobaric oxygen therapy in stimulating erythropoiesis in cancer patients undergoing abdominal surgeries. While the OXY group resulted in increased reticulocyte counts, further research with larger sample sizes and multi-center trials is warranted to confirm these findings.

Trial registration

The study was retrospectively registered under NCT number 06321874 on The 10th of April 2024.
A phase II study of anlotinib plus albumin-bound paclitaxel in patients with recurrent, platinum-resistant primary epithelial ovarian or peritoneal carcinomar (A-Plus trial): Updated efficacy and safety.
Authors: Li Yanfang , Zhou Yun , Zhou Jian
Published: July 2024

5557

Background: Initial results of the open-label, single-arm phase II clinical trial, we had demonstrated anlotinib plus albumin-bound paclitaxel treatment activity and favorable tolerance in patients with recurrent, platinum-resistant primary epithelial ovarian or peritoneal carcinoma (SGO 2023. Oral featured poster 549). Here we update the latest efficacy and safety data in enrolled patients. Methods: In this study, 44 patients diagnosed with platinum-resistant or platinum-refractory ovarian cancer were planned to be enrolled. Patients received ab-paclitaxel 260 mg/m2 given by intravenous infusion over 30 min every 3 weeks and anlotinib (10mg, po, qd, for 14 days, every 3 weeks) until disease progression or intolerable toxicity. For efficacy evaluation, the following were required: measurable disease defined by RECIST 1.1, or if there were no measurable lesions but an elevated CA125 with significant symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating, or pleural effusion/ascites (Rustin criteria). The primary end point were investigator-confirmed objective response rate (ORR). Results: From January 2021 to March 2023, 44 patients were enrolled with a median age of 49 years(range, 40-66). 29 patients had measurable lesions and 15 patients had no measurable lesions but an elevated CA125 evaluated according to Rustin criteria. As of efficacy evaluation, 43 out of 44 patients can be analyzed and one without measurable lesions can not be included due to the absence of a post-treatment data. Among the 29 patients with measurable lesions, 16 (55.2%; 95% CI 0.359-0.730) achieved objective responses, including CR in two patients, PR in fourteen, stable disease in thirteen, and PD in zero. In the group of 14 patients without measurable lesions, 9 (60%; 95% CI 0.328-0.825) achieved responses, including CA 125 responses in nine patients, CA 125 no response in four, and CA125 disease progression in one. Overall responses were observed in 25 out of 44 patients (56.8%; 95% CI 0.411-0.713) in the intention-to-treat population, and in the per-protocol population, the response was seen in 25 out of 43 patients (58.1%; 95% CI 0.422-0.726). The grade 3/4 AEs encompassed leukopenia (31 patients, 70.5%), gum-pain (10 patients, 22.7%), hypertension (10 patients, 22.7%), Hand-foot syndrome (4 patients, 9.1%). Conclusions: Updated results reconfirm a favorable antitumor activity and manageable safety from anlotinib plus albumin-bound paclitaxel in the treatment of recurrent ovarian or peritoneal carcinoma. Further survival results are expected. Clinical trial information: ChiCTR2100054329.
Comparison of checkpoint inhibitor–based regimens as first-line therapy in advanced hepatocellular carcinoma: A Frequentist Network meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials.
Authors: Ali Muhammad Ashar , Aiman Wajeeha , Ali Mukarram Jamat , Anwar Muhammad Yasir , Shaaban Hamid Salim , Guron Gunwant K. , Maroules Michael
Published: July 2024

e16136

Background: Multiple immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) based regimens have shown better responses and survival rates than previously used sorafenib/lenvatinib in advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, there was no direct comparison done among different ICI-based regimens. This network meta-analysis focuses on the efficacy of different ICI-based regimens in advanced HCC as first-line therapy. Methods: A comprehensive literature search was performed on PubMed, and Embase from the inception of data till 12/30/2023 with keywords for “Hepatocellular carcinoma” AND “Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors”. We screened 5120 articles and included 8 randomized clinical trials (RCTs, N = 5834). “R” software and netmeta package was used to conduct this network meta-analysis. Atezolizumab + cabozantinib was randomly chosen as the comparator group. Results: 2208 patients were treated with ICI-based two-drug regimens, 1102 patients were treated with ICI monotherapy, 1937 patients were treated with sorafenib, and 399 patients were treated with lenvatinib. Overall survival (OS) was 0.63 (0.43-0.93), 0.64 (0.43-0.98), and 0.69 (0.48-0.99) in favor of sintilimab + bevacizumab, atezolizumab + bevacizumab, and camrelizumab + rivoceranib, respectively, as compared to atezolizumab + cabozantinib. Progression free survival (PFS) was 0.83 (0.54-1.27), 0.89 (0.58-1.35), and 0.94 (0.61-1.45) in favor of camrelizumab + rivoceranib, sintilimab + bevacizumab, and atezolizumab + bevacizumab, respectively, as compared to atezolizumab + cabozentinib. Odds ratio of overall response rate (ORR) 2.03 (0.67-6.13), 1.7 (0.65-4.43), and 1.46 (0.58-3.67) in favor of sintilimab + bevacizumab, camrelizumab + rivoceranib, and tremlimumab + durvalumab, respectively, as compared to atezolizumab + cabozantinib. P-scores for each regimen are in Table. Conclusions: Among ICI combinations, better survival and response rates were reported with sintilimab + bevacizumab, atezolizumab + bevacizumab, and camrelizumab + rivoceranib. Therefore, these regimens should be preferred for treatment of advanced HCC as first line therapy in patients who can tolerate these regimens. [Table: see text]