bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cerebral microbleeds in critically ill patients with respiratory failure or sepsis: a scoping review
Authors: Chen Bing Yu , Dang Johnny , Cho Sung-Min , Harnegie Mary Pat , Uchino Ken
Published: November 2023

Background Cerebral microbleeds (CMB) have been described in critically ill patients with respiratory failure, acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), or sepsis. This scoping review aimed to systematically summarize existing literature on critical illness-associated CMBs.Methods Studies reporting on adults admitted to the intensive care unit for respiratory failure, ARDS or sepsis with evidence of CMBs on magnetic resonance imaging were included for review following a systematic search across five databases (MEDLINE, Embase, CENTRAL, Scopus, and Web of Science) and a two-stage screening process. Studies were excluded if patients’ CMBs were clearly explained by another process of neurological injury.Results Forty-eight studies reporting on 216 critically ill patients (mean age 57.9, 18.4% female) with CMBs were included. Of 216, 197 (91.2%) patients developed respiratory failure or ARDS, 5 (2.3%) developed sepsis, and 14 (6.5%) developed both respiratory failure and sepsis. Of 211 with respiratory failure, 160 (75.8%) patients had Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19). The prevalence of CMBs among critically ill patients with respiratory failure or ARDS was 30.0% (111 of 370 patients in cohort studies). The corpus callosum and juxtacortical area were the most frequently involved sites for CMBs (64.8% and 41.7% of all 216 patients, respectively). Functional outcomes were only reported in 48 patients, among whom 31 (64.6%) were independent at discharge, 4 (8.3%) were dependent at discharge, and 13 (27.1%) did not survive until discharge. Cognitive outcomes were only reported in 11 of 216 patients (5.1%), all of which showed cognitive deficits (9 patients with executive dysfunction, 2 patients with memory deficits).Conclusions CMBs are commonly reported in patients with critical illness due to respiratory failure, ARDS, or sepsis. CMBs had a predilection for the corpus callosum and juxtacortical area, which may be specific to critical illness-associated CMBs. Functional and cognitive outcomes of these lesions are largely unknown.
WITHDRAWN: Site-specific assessment of radiographic interdental bone loss as proposed in the recent classification of periodontal diseases: Potential impact of location, severity, and clinical training
Authors: Bulut Selcen Ozcan , Akcicek Gokcen , Ileri Tulin , Karabulut Erdem , Uysal Serdar , Keceli Huseyin Gencay , Tarhan Nermin
Published: November 2023

Aim
To site-specifically assess the extent of IBL, as proposed in recent classification of periodontal diseases, from ortopantomographs (OPGs) in a site-specific manner and to analyze the potential impact of location and the course of dental education on the interpretation of IBL and the level of agreement.
Methods
IBL% was measured by 4th term (T4) (n = 5), 5th term (T5) (n = 5) dental students and post-graduate (PG) (n = 5) examiners from a total of 5907 anterior and 4678 posterior sites in the OPGs. IBL% was evaluated from mesial and distal aspects of the index teeth (#11, #21, #31, #41, #16, #26, #36 and #46) according to the following scale; 0: no IBL, 1: IBL = < 15%, 2: IBL = 15–33%, 3: IBL > 33%. The level of agreement among researchers was analyzed by using Kappa coefficient and McNemar-Bowker test.
Results
The total agreement of all examiners was substantial (κ = 0.79, p < 0.001) and PG examiners showed almost perfect intra-group agreement (κ = 0.93, p < 0.001). The agreement between T4 and T5 was slight (κ = 0.19, p < 0.001), whereas PG and the other two groups showed fair inter-group agreement (κ = 0.32 and 0.25, respectively; p < 0.001. Although the highest agreement was found in the lower posterior (κ = 0.81), lower anterior κ = 0.80 and upper anterior and upper posterior κ = 0.75. The agreement in Stage III-IV was higher than in Stage I.
Conclusion
Considering the experience level of the examiner, OPG is a useful tool in IBL% measurement for periodontal evaluation but it seems that the findings in the anterior region should be confirmed with intraoral radiographs.
Using bore-hole electrical resistivity tomography to monitor the working face roof water infiltration
Authors: du liang , Zhu Wenjin , Wang Lei , Li Hao , Jiao Xiaoyu , Qin Teng
Published: November 2023

Roof water inrush in coal mining is a significant type of water-related disaster, usually resulting from the interconnection of water-bearing geological formations formed by cracks during and after working face mining. Therefore, monitoring the roof water infiltration is of paramount importance in preventing or mitigating water inrush incidents in the working face. This study employs the borehole resistivity tomography imaging method to conduct physical experiments for water seepage monitoring in the roof cracks generated during coal model mining. Additionally, roof monitoring was performed in the 7130 working face of Qidong Coal Mine. The results of both physical experiments and field tests demonstrate that borehole resistivity tomography is well-suited for monitoring water infiltration in the roof of the working face, enabling determination of the temporal and spatial distribution of water seepage. By analyzing the variation patterns of low-resistivity anomalies in the resistivity profile, the water-bearing zones can be delineated, and the water-conducting channels and water outflow points can be identified. Furthermore, by combining the size of the water-bearing zones, a qualitative assessment of the water content can be achieved.
Inhibition of the galactosyltransferase C1GALT1 reduces osteosarcoma cell proliferation by interfering with ERK signaling and cell cycle progression
Authors: Takita Junko , Watanabe Kentaro , Tasaka Keiji , Ogata Hideto , Kato Shota , Ueno Hiroo , Umeda Katsutsugu , Isobe Tomoya , Kubota Yasuo , Sekiguchi Masahiro , Kimura Shunsuke , Sato-Otsubo Aiko , Hiwatari Mitsuteru , Ushiku Tetsuo , Kato Motohiro , Oka Akira , Miyano Satoru , Ogawa Seishi
Published: November 2023

Novel therapeutic strategies are urgently required for osteosarcoma, given the early age at onset and persistently high mortality rate. Modern transcriptomics techniques can identify differentially expressed genes (DEGs) that may serve as biomarkers and therapeutic targets, so we screened for DEGs in osteosarcoma. We found that osteosarcoma cases could be divided into fair and poor survival groups based on gene expression profiles. Among the genes upregulated in the poor survival group, siRNA-mediated knockdown of the glycosylation-related gene C1GALT1 suppressed osteosarcoma cell proliferation in culture. Gene expression, phosphorylation, and glycome array analyses also demonstrated that C1GALT1 is required to maintain ERK signaling and cell cycle progression. Moreover, the C1GALT1 inhibitor itraconazole suppressed osteosarcoma cell proliferation in culture, while doxycycline-induced shRNA-mediated knockdown reduced xenograft osteosarcoma growth in mice. Elevated C1GALT1 expression is a potential early predictor of poor prognosis, while pharmacological inhibition may be a feasible treatment strategy for osteosarcoma.
Prevalence of malnutrition and chronic energy deficiency among Dokra artisans: First report from Bankura district, West Bengal, India
Authors: Mahanty Subhajit , Bhuin Abhijit , Namata Bakul , Karmakar Ajoy , Chakrabortty Keshab , Samanta Sudisha , Mallick Supriti , Sow Rohan , Majumder Mousumi , Majumder Surajit
Published: November 2023

Malnutrition is a critical global public health issue that especially affects vulnerable communities. In India, traditional artisans, such as Dokra artisans in the Bankura district of West Bengal, are disproportionately impacted. This study was conducted to assess malnutrition and chronic energy deficiency (CED) among Dokra artisans across diverse age groups. Demographic and socioeconomic data were rigorously collected, while anthropometric parameters were calculated using established formulas. CED served as the key malnutrition indicator. Data analysis employed MINITAB 21 and SPSS 25, with continuous variables analysed via Student’s t test or ANOVA, and categorical variables assessed using the chi-square test. Significance (p < 0.05) prompted Dunnet's post hoc test for specific mean comparisons. The participation of 122 artisans spanning age groups revealed significant distinctions in nutritional status (χ2 = 42.096; p < 0.001). CED prevalence was higher in males (48.1%) than in females (44.1%). An association between education levels and socioeconomic status was evident (χ2 = 18.509; p < 0.005). Standard questionnaires identified a range of occupational health challenges. This study underscores the gravity of malnutrition among Dokra artisans, calling for targeted health education initiatives within this demographic to address this formidable public health concern in India. Public health interventions should transcend nutritional improvement and extend to marginalized and vulnerable populations throughout India.
Effect of ultrasonic attenuation characteristics on forming accuracy of ribbed cylindrical parts in ultrasonic-assisted spinning process
Authors: Li Shuangli , Zhu Zhengwu , Zhao Yixi , Yu Zhongqi
Published: November 2023

Ultrasonic-assisted forming process is one of the important methods to improve the formability of materials because of its acoustic softening effect and antifriction effect. After the introduction of ultrasonic, the forming accuracy of the inner ribs is improved in the spinning process of ribbed cylindrical parts, but the effect law of ultrasonic energy on the forming of inner ribs have not been clarified in detail. In this paper, a modeling method of ultrasonic-assisted spinning was proposed, which was taken into account the attenuation characteristics of ultrasonic energy in solid media for the improvement of the simulation accuracy. The corresponding simulation model was established to explore the effect law of ultrasonic amplitude on the forming accuracy of inner ribs. The results showed that the forming height and surface morphology of longitudinal ribs can be improved effectively in the ultrasonic-assisted spinning process. With the increase of ultrasonic amplitude, the forming height of longitudinal rib gradually increased, but the increase degree gradually slowed down, and the surface morphology of the longitudinal ribs always present the geometric characteristics that the screw-in end is higher than the screw-out end. The reason is that the application of ultrasonic vibration promoted the radial and circumferential flow of the material, and improved the material filling ability into the rib groove. The combined effect of ultrasonic softening effect and anti-friction effect reduced the radial filling difference between the screw-in end and the screw-out end of the ribs. Ultrasound could enhance the material flow but did not significant change the forming distribution characteristics of the ribs, resulting in limited rib height and uneven surface morphology. Also, the energy field gradient design method along the sheet thickness was proposed to further improve the forming accuracy of the inner ribs.
Evaluation of the performance of satellite products and microphysical schemes with the aim of forecasting early flood warnings in arid and semi-arid regions (a case study of northeastern Iran)
Authors: Sarvestan Rasoul , Barati Reza , Shamsipour Aliakbar , Khazaei Sahar , Kleidorfer Manfred
Published: November 2023

Flood early warning requires rainfall data with a high temporal and spatial resolution for flood risk analysis to simulate flood dynamics in all small and large basins. However, such high-quality data are still very scarce in many developing countries. In this research, in order to identify the best and most up-to-date rainfall estimation tools for early flood forecasting in arid and semi-arid regions, the northeastern region of Iran with 17 meteorological stations and four rainfall events was investigated. The rainfall products of satellites (PERSIANN-CDR and GSMaP, ERA5, GPM CHIRPS) along with the most widely used microphysical schemes of Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) model (Purdue-Lin (Lin), WRF Single-Moment class 3, 6 (WSM3, WSM6), and WRF Double-Moment class 6 (WDM6). were used for rainfall modeling. The efficiency of each of these models to forecasting the amount of rainfall was verified by four methods: Threat Scores (TS), False Alarm Ratio (FAR), Hit Rate (H), and False Alarm (F). Analysis of research findings showed that the WRF meteorological model has better accuracy in rainfall modeling for the next 24 hours. In this model, Lin's microphysical scheme has the highest accuracy, and its threat score (TS) quantity is up to 98% efficient in some stations. The best accuracy of satellite products for estimating the amount of rainfall is up to 50%. This accuracy value is related to the satellite product (ERA5). In this method, an 18 km distance from the ground station is the best distance for setting up the space station, which is used for input to hydrological/hydraulic models. Based on the results of this research, by using the connection of the WRF model with hydrology/hydraulic models, it is possible to predict and simulate rainfall-runoff up to 72 hours before its occurrence. Also, by using these space stations, the amount of rainfall is estimated for the entire area of the basin and an early flood warning is issued.
Causal relationship between intracranial aneurysms and COVID-19: A bidirectional two-sample Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Liu Zheng , Zhu Huaxin , Li Meihua
Published: November 2023

Background: The aim of this study was to assess the association of any (ruptured or unruptured) intracranial aneurysms (IAs) and aneurysmal subarachnoid haemorrhage (aSAH) with the risk of COVID-19 (susceptibility, hospitalisation rate and very severe respiratory disease) .
Method: We collected the genome-wide association statistics of IAs (sample size, n=79,429) and COVID-19 (n=1,683,768). We conducted bi-directional two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) analyses, of which the inverse-variance-weighted(IVW) method was the primary method to estimate the causal effects between COVID-19 and IAs.
Results: Genetically predicted aSAH was associated with the risk of COVID-19 very severe respiratory disease (OR(95%CI): 0.84(0.73-0.97), P=0.015), and COVID-19 very severe respiratory disease was positively associated with risk of IAs (OR(95%CI):1.18(1.02-1.36), P=0.025).
Conclusion: This Mendelian randomization study suggests that COVID-19 very severe respiratory disease may promote the development of IAs, while aSAH may have a potential preventive effect on COVID-19 very severe respiratory disease.
Radiology Residents' and Radiologists' Perception and Attitude Towards Medical Artificial Intelligence in Radiology– An Initial National Multicenter Survey
Authors: Menur Fuad , Abraham Yodit , Sisay Samuel , Zewdneh Daniel , Abate Kumlachew
Published: November 2023

Introduction : Recent advances in artificial intelligence and machine learning (AI/ML) are transforming radiology practices. While AI/ML innovations present opportunities to augment radiologists' capabilities, some have expressed concerns about AI/ML potentially replacing radiologists in the future. These uncertainties have led to varied perspectives among radiology professionals regarding the role of AI/ML in the field. This study aimed to assess respondents' knowledge, research involvement, utilization of AI/ML applications, and attitudes towards the impact of AI/ML on radiology practice and training. Methods Between June and July of 2022, we conducted a web-based survey of radiologists and radiology residents from 5 major institutions in Ethiopia with radiology residency programs. The survey was distributed through the Ethiopian Radiological Society, and social media. Group comparison was tested by chi-square test for categorical responses and Mann-Whitney test for ordinal rating scale responses. Results Of the 276 respondents, 94.5% were novices when it came to AI/ML, and radiologists were more likely than residents to have read a journal paper on AI in radiology in the previous 6 months (33.3% vs. 18.9%). Only 1.8% of respondents had active or previous involvement in AI research, though 92% were eager to join such research efforts. Most of respondents intended to expand their AI/ML knowledge (84.6%) and believed AI/ML would substantially influence radiology practice (72.3%). While few felt AI/ML could replace radiologists (16.8%), most supported integrating AI/ML training into radiology residency curricula (82.9%). Conclusion This study suggests that radiology residents and radiologists in Ethiopia are generally positive and open-minded towards AI/ML in radiology, despite their limited knowledge and experience with the technology. The majority of respondents believe that AI and data science skills should be introduced during residency training. Recommendations : Medical AI training should be incorporated into radiology residency programs to prepare future radiologists for the changing landscape of radiology practice.
The effect of glycyrrhizin on central regulation of food intake in broilers injected with LPS
Authors: Rahdari Amin , Hamidi Farshid
Published: November 2023

Poultry farming poses challenges due to hygiene and nutrition issues, leading to disease and inflammation in chickens. One of the challenges is gram-negative bacteria that stimulate pro-inflammatory reactions through lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and cause disease and anorexia. Licorice, a medicinal plant with glycyrrhizin (Gly) as its main active ingredient, was used in our experiment to investigate the effects of glycyrrhizin on food intake in LPS-injected broilers. Accordingly, the study involved three experiments involving 72 male broiler chickens, to examine the impact of Gly. on their food intake in LPS-injected broilers (n = 24). Experiment 1 was conducted to examine the effects of IP injection of Gly. (12.5, 25, and 50 mg) on food intake in chickens. In experiment 2, the birds received intracerebroventricular (ICV) injections of LPS (6.25, 12.5, and 25 ng). In the last experiment, we investigated the impact of IP injection of glycyrrhizin on inflammation induced by LPS. Based on the findings, IP injection of glycyrrhizin significantly increased food intake in a dose-dependent manner (p < 0.05). Whereas, LPS significantly reduced food intake in food-deprived chickens. Gly. can neutralizes reduced food intake caused by inflammation in broilers, highlighting its potential role in modulating food intake in broilers.
Gaze, Nod, and Smile for Success. A Deepfake-Based Study on Facial Expressiveness and Social Outcomes
Authors: Renier Laetitia A. , Shubham Kumar , Vijay Rahil Satyanarayan , Kleinlogel Emmanuelle P. , Jayagopi Dinesh Babu , Mast Marianne Schmid , Mishra Swasti Shreya
Published: November 2023

Artificial intelligence (AI)-generated media is used in entertainment, art, education, and marketing. AI-generated faces or facial expressions using deepfake-based technologies might also contribute to nonverbal behavior studies. As a proof of concept, in this research, we test the replicability of past results regarding the positive effects of facial expressiveness (e.g., gazing, nodding, and smiling) on social outcomes. Because the facial expressions when listening to someone (i.e., nonverbal immediacy) encompass several behaviors that are typically related (i.e., smiling while nodding), the effect of combinations of these behaviors is challenging to study. We thus test the effect of facial expressiveness (gazing, nodding, and smiling vs. none) on first impression judgements in a job interview setting using AI-generated experimental video material. We measure how competent, warm, and favorably independent observers (n = 823) perceive the targets (n = 159) showing AI-generated facial expressions. Our results replicate past research showing that the more targets are facially expressive, the more they are perceived favorably. Apart from supporting evidence of the importance of facial expressiveness for conveying a positive impression, we show the benefits of relying on AI-generated experimental video material for the study of nonverbal behavior.
Methyl jasmonate and salicylic acid enhance the production of epifriedelanol and friedelin in Cannabis sativa L. hairy roots
Authors: Mahendran Ganesan , Vimolmangkang Sornkanok
Published: November 2023

Friedelin and epifriedelanol are pentacyclic triterpenoids that preferentially accumulate in the roots of hemp(Cannabis sativaL.) and are valued for their antidiabetic, hypolipidemic, antioxidant, liver protective, anti-ulcer, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, anticancer, and antisenescence properties. The aim of the present study was to investigate the influence of media, carbon sources, and elicitation on the production ofC. sativahairy root biomass and these metabolites. The MS liquid medium promoted the highest fresh weight (9.45 ± 0.00 g/100 mL flask) biomass production in hairy root cultures after 28 days. The highest levels of epifriedelanol (3.79-fold) and friedelin (3.25-fold) were found at the end of the exponential phase. The presence of 3% sucrose provided the highest accumulation of epifriedelanol(0.930 ± 0.013 mg/g DW) and friedelin (0.574 ± 0.024 mg/g DW) in the roots. The effects of methyl jasmonate (MJ) and salicylic acid (SA) on the enhancement of friedelin and epifriedelanol inC. sativahairy root cultures were investigated. Between the two elicitors, SA showed the highest production of epifriedelanol (up to 5.018 ± 0.35 mg/g DW) and friedelin up to 1.56 ± 0.34 mg/g DW in 28-day-old stationary phase hairy roots. These represented 5.22- and 2.88-fold increase over the control (0.96 ± 0.01 mg/g DW and 0.54 ± 0.03 mg/g DW) after 96 h of treatment, respectively. The maximum accumulations of epifriedelanol (3.59 ± 0.12 mg/g DW) and friedelin (1.31 ± 0.01 mg/g DW) were observed in the treatment with MJ (100 µM) after 24 h of exposure and were 3.73- and 2.44-fold higher than the control, respectively. These findings suggest that elicitation is an effective technique for enhancing the yields of these valuable bioactive pentacyclic triterpenoids inC. sativahairy root cultures in a relatively short period of time.
X axis sorting algorithm
Authors: Bukani Ahmad Karami
Published: November 2023

This article examines three algorithms for sorting random numbers according to statistical frequency, which, by examining these algorithms, suggests an optimal method for large and bulky data, and these algorithms are implemented using C# programming language and explained.
Leupaxin: A Prospective Therapeutic Target for Esophageal Squamous Carcinoma Treatment
Authors: Teng Fei , Chen Yang , Liao Fei , Wang Yingzhao , Jiang Yue-Quan , Wang Zhi-Qiang
Published: November 2023

Esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) is a prevalent malignant tumor. Immunotherapy research has led to advances in its treatment, but further research is necessary to identify its effective biomarkers. This study investigated the expression, pathological and prognostic significance, protein interactions, pathway enrichment, immune microenvironment, correlations between immune regulators and infiltration of immune cells, associations with drug resistance genes, and chemosensitivity of the immune-related biomarker leupaxin (LPXN) in ESCC using bioinformatics. The relative expression levels of LPXN mRNA and protein were evaluated and verified in both healthy and ESCC tissues using quantitative polymerase chain reaction and immunohistochemistry. The potential role of LPXN in ESCC was investigated using cell proliferation, apoptosis, clonogenic, and migration assays. The co-expression of LPXN and programmed cell death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) at the protein level in ESCC lines was determined by western blotting. We validated the expression of the LPXN gene in ESCC using clinical samples and investigated the correlation between LPXN gene expression and the efficacy of immune therapy for ESCC. Functional experiments demonstrated that inhibiting LPXN led to decreased cell proliferation, increased apoptosis, and impaired cell migration and invasion in ESCC cells. Our results indicate the involvement of the immune-related biomarker LPXN in the proliferation and migration processes of ESCC, establishing a novel framework for treatment.
Diversity in Photosynthetic Pigments and Phytochemical Compounds among Iranian Populations of Inula helenium L.
Authors: Moradi Nader , Badi Hassanali Naghdi , Jari Sepideh Kalateh , Mehrafarin Ali , Danaee Elham
Published: November 2023

Elecampane (Inula helenium L.) is a valuable medicinal plant known for its well-documented anticancer, cardioprotective, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties. This study aimed to assess various Iranian elecampane populations by collecting 15 populations from their natural habitats and evaluating them in terms of photosynthetic pigments, phenolic content, and essential oil profiles. The populations exhibited variations in chlorophyll (Chl) and carotenoid content, which were positively correlated with soil potassium and phosphorous levels. Content of total phenolic (TPC), total flavonoids (TFC), and proline varied among the populations, with TPC and proline showing a significant correlation with Chl content. The essential oil (EO) content ranged from 0.13 to 0.26%, with the analysis identifying 33 compounds by GC/MS, comprising over 96% of the EO content. The predominant compounds in the EO profiles included β-elemene, tricyclene, α-pinene, isoalantolactone, and santolina triene. Principal component analysis (PCA) and agglomerative hierarchical clustering (AHC) revealed three classes based on the main EO compositions. Populations in habitats with altitudes of 2000-2400 m, pH levels of 6.5-7, and soils with silt/silt loam texture had higher TPC and EO content. Importantly, different populations exhibited essential oils with highly diverse compositions, with some populations containing compounds absent in others. Except for β-elemene, which was present in all populations, other compounds varied in presence and quantity across different populations. This suggests the potential for obtaining diverse and desired chemotypes of Inula helenium through further research.
The predictive value of homocysteine levels for pregnancy outcomes in PCOS women: A retrospective study
Authors: Gao Yuan , Zhang Xiaozuo , Guan Guixue , Wang Yuhuan , Sun Qian , Yuan Guangwei , Zhu Zuobin , Yang Wen , Han Conghui
Published: November 2023

Background
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) poses a challenge in reproductive medicine, particularly in understanding the role of hyperhomocysteinemia in its pathogenesis, especially among women experiencing recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL).
Objective
We aimed to assess the predictive value of homocysteine (HCY) levels for pregnancy outcomes in women with PCOS.
Materials and Methods
A consecutive series of PCOS-diagnosed patients participated in this prospective study. Pregnancy outcomes were collected prospectively. Women with PCOS were divided into two groups: Group I (n = 67) experienced RPL, while Group II (n = 162) had successful live births. Group I was further categorized into subgroups A and B based on insulin resistance status. Basic participant information and serum HCY levels were recorded. A logistic regression model was constructed, with model selection based on Akaike information criteria (AIC) using backward stepwise selection. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were plotted to evaluate model sensitivity and specificity. Optimal cut points for predicted probabilities were determined using the Youden index. Model performance was assessed using five-fold cross-validation, repeated ten times.
Results
Patients without live births were more likely to have a history of adverse pregnancy outcomes (78% vs. 22%, p < 0.05). They also exhibited higher baseline HCY levels (7.7 vs. 6.85, p < 0.05) compared to those with live births. Univariate logistic regression revealed significant associations between live birth and adverse pregnancy history and HCY levels. Backward stepwise selection identified adverse pregnancy history (odds ratio [OR] = 12.92, 95% CI: 6.46–27.40, p = 3.89×10− 12), insulin resistance (OR = 2.08, 95% CI: 1.04–4.26, p = 0.041), and HCY (OR = 1.34, 95% CI: 1.09–1.68, p = 0.008) as important predictors of live birth. The area under the ROC curve (AUC) was 0.839, indicating strong discrimination ability. The optimal cut point for predicted probabilities, determined by the Youden index, was 0.258, resulting in a sensitivity of 0.772 and specificity of 0.806.
Conclusion
This study underscores the predictive value of homocysteine levels in assessing pregnancy outcomes among women with PCOS. Combining homocysteine levels with medical history and insulin resistance status serves as a robust predictor of live birth outcomes.
Dihydrolactate dehydrogenase (DHODH) may be a potential drug target for the treatment of lumbar disc herniation: a bioinformatics analysis based on mitochondria-related genes
Authors: Zhang Xiao , Gu Wenbo , Luo Di , Zhu Xi , Yuan Haifeng
Published: November 2023

Objective: To explore mitochondrial metabolism-related genes as potential hub genes in lumbar disc herniation (LDH) and their associated molecular regulatory mechanisms, and to predict potential drug targets.
Methods: Based on the mRNA-Seq data of mitochondrial metabolism genes and LDH from public databases, the hub genes were screened and their biological functions were investigated using LASSO regression analysis, support vector machine (SVM) algorithm and random forest (RF). Then, the immune profile of osteoporosis was detected based on the CIBERSORT algorithm to study the immune cell infiltration of the hub genes. The diagnostic model Nomogram risk prediction model is constructed and the effect is evaluated. Finally, potential drug targets were obtained and validated by molecular docking through drug database.
Results: 4 hub genes were obtained:DHODH,BAK1,TIMM17B and TIMM23. The results of GO analysis mainly include mitochondrial function and composition,macromolecular transport such as Bcl-2 family proteins,heat shock protein binding,etc. KEGG pathway is mainly involved in multi-species apoptosis pathway,thyroid cancer,pyrimidine metabolism,etc. These four hub genes have correlation with a variety of immune cells, as well as constructing a diagnostic model with good diagnostic efficacy. Finally, through drug database screening and molecular docking validation, DHODH was found to have a potential role in the treatment of LDH by affecting pyrimidine metabolism.
CONCLUSION: DHODH, BAK1, TIMM17B, and TIMM23 are hub genes associated with mitochondrial metabolism in LDH. They act on LDH through multiple pathways and may be hub genes for LDH diagnostic biomarkers. Finally, DHODH was found to be a potential drug target for the treatment of LDH.
A Porosity-Height Relationship for Soil-Rock Mixtures of Unsaturated Dumps Based on Field and Laboratory Investigations
Authors: Shrivastava Shubham , Deb Debasis
Published: November 2023

The stripping ratio increases as the surface mine gets deeper, causing an increase in the height of waste dump slopes. This poses a threat to stability since dumps are composed of soil-rock mixtures, mostly in an unsaturated state. In this research work, field and laboratory-based studies were conducted on soil-rock mixtures to propose an analytical relationship between in situ porosity and dump height. Sand replacement method in the field and standard Proctor test and consolidated drained triaxial shear tests in the lab were performed to establish the porosity-height relationship curves. It was found that the porosity decreases with height, as described by a negative exponential distribution with an exponent termed ‘mechanical pseudo pore compaction coefficient,’ which determines the shape of the curve. The proposed relationship was then utilized to evaluate the compaction of soil-rock mixtures at a pre-residual state. The parameters of the porosity-height relationship were also assessed for lightly, partially, and fully compacted dump slopes.
Financial conflicts of interest and disclosure in clinical practice guidelines for bipolar disorder and major depressive disorder in Japan
Authors: Murayama Anju , Kugo Hinari , Senoo Yuki
Published: November 2023

Clinical practice guidelines (CPGs) are essential for standardizing patient care based on evidence-based medicine. However, the presence of financial conflicts of interest (COIs) among CPG authors can undermine their credibility. This cross-sectional analysis of disclosed payments from pharmaceutical companies assesses the prevalence and magnitude of personal payments for lecturing, consulting, and writing to CPGs for bipolar disorder and major depressive disorder in Japan between 2016 and 2020. This study found that 93.5% of authors received payments over a five-year period, with total payments exceeding $4 million. The median payment per author was $49,422 (interquartile range: $7,792 – $111,567), with a notable concentration of payments among a small number of authors, including the CPG chairperson. Despite these extensive financial relationships, only a fraction of authors disclosed their COIs in the CPGs. These large amounts of personal payments were made by pharmaceutical companies manufacturing new antidepressants and sleeping aids listed in the CPGs. The findings highlight deviations from international COI management standards and suggest a need for more stringent COI policies for psychiatry CPGs in Japan.
Molecular marker-based evaluation of wheat advance lines for leaf rust and strip rust
Authors: Iqbal Junaid , Nazir Shahid , Habib Imran , Ahmad Jazakat , Rahman Sajid ur , Jamil Muhammad Waqas
Published: November 2023

Background: Leaf and brown rust are two common fungal diseases that affect wheat crops in Pakistan, as they do in many wheat-producing regions around the world.
Objective: The present study was conducted to explore rust resistance potential of 50 advance lines of spring wheat.
Material and methods: DNA markers linked with different genes conferring resistance to leaf rusts and Yellow rust were employed in this study. A total of 10 genes, consisting of seven Lr (Lr10, Lr19, Lr28, Lr29, Lr34, Lr46, Lr67) and three Yr (Yr5, Yr10, Yr15) were studied through linked DNA markers.
Result: Marker Lr10 and SCS265 identified the presence of the Lr10 and Lr 19 gene in 30 and one advance lines out of the 50 advances lines correspondingly, indicating their resistance to leaf rust. Marker SCS421 for Lr 28 and Lr 29 for Lr 29 amplified in 34 and 50 wheat advance lines. Marker csLV34 and XMC44 detected the presence of the Lr34/YR18/Pm38 and Lr46/YR29/Pm39 gene in 5 and 13 lines respectively. Marker CFD 23 for Lr67/Yr46/Sr55/ and Xgwm413 for Yr 15 was not amplified in any wheat line. Wms501 and Xpsp3000 confirmed the presence of the Yr-5/Yr43 and Yr 10 gene in 9 and 31 wheat lines, indicating their potential rust resistance.
Novelty Statement: This particular subset of wheat lines, including AKHBAR-19, 10141, V-20330, PGMB-20-48, V-19080, INDUS-21, NR-564, and WVH-1214, attributed to selective breeding practices or spontaneous allelic accumulation.
An Agitation Sedation Level Prediction Model for ICU Patients
Authors: Dai Pei-Yu , Lin Pei-Yi , Shue Ruey-Kai , Liu Shu-Fang , Wu Yu-Cheng , Wu Chieh-Liang , Cheng Wei-Lin , Chung Huang-Chien , Lin Guan-Yin , Chen Lun-Chi
Published: November 2023

Background:
Intensive care units (ICUs) are crucial in healthcare, but internal factors, like patient agitation due to delirium, treatment discomfort, and the ICU environment, can compromise care and lead to safety issues. In Taiwan, the Richmond Agitation–Sedation Scale (RASS) is used for agitation assessment, but it has limitations, including subjectivity and infrequent assessments.
Methods:
To enhance ICU care, we developed a machine learning-based patient agitation and sedation assessment tool. We used an ensemble learning model, combining two machine learning models to classify patients into three categories: oversedation, optimal sedation, and agitation.
Results:
The RandomForest model achieved the highest average accuracy for sedation (ACC = 0.92, AUC = 0.97), while addressing class imbalance increased agitation classification accuracy (ACC = 0.77, AUC = 0.88). The model's results, based on key features identified, can guide sedative dosage adjustments, enabling more precise patient care.
Conclusions:
Our study demonstrated the effectiveness of machine learning in classifying patient agitation and sedation. We recommend incorporating image-based features in patient agitation assessment. Our classification system can assist medical professionals in RASS assessments, mitigating safety risks related to patient agitation in ICUs and improving overall ICU capacity.
Trial Registration:
We obtained access to the critical care database (AI-111010) of the AI Center of Taichung Veterans General Hospital (TCVGH) from the Institutional Review Board (approval number: CE22484A), retrospectively registered.
A Review on Machine Learning for Sustainable Construction Equipment
Authors: Khan Asmat Ullah , Afzal Muhammad
Published: November 2023

The construction sector is producing enormous amount of emission due to usage of heavy machinery. To address global climate concerns, mitigating these greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions is important. The latest technological advancement offers an opportunity to improve the sustainability of equipment operation, often deployed in large scale construction projects. Thus, this research evaluates machine learning algorithms to decrease equipment emission and encourages construction practitioners to adopt innovative tools to replace existing practices. A systematic review was conducted upon a collection of 15 publications related to the subject. Future research direction was given for improvement meeting real-world cases.
Molecular characterization of a previously undescribed fusarivirus infecting the phytopathogenic fungus Fusarium pseudograminearum
Authors: Zhao Ying , Zhong Rongrong , Guan Zhengzhe , Wang Mengjiao , Zhang Yuanyuan , Li Xueyun , Qin Yanhong , Wang Fei , Yang Zhimin , Shao Ke , Wen Caiyi , Song Luyang
Published: November 2023

Fusarium pseudograminearum is a pathogenic fungus causeing crown rot. Only two mycovirus have been reported in F. pseudograminearumthus far. Here, we report a fungal virus (mycovirus), Fusarium pseudograminearum fusarivirus 1 (FpFV1), isolated from the F. pseudograminearum strain ZZ-1. FpFV1 has a single-stranded positive-sense RNA (+ssRNA) genome of 6622 nucleotides containing four open reading frames (ORFs). ORF1 encodes for a large 1,550 amino acids (aa) polypeptide with a conserved RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp) and two helicase domains. The ORF2, ORF3 and ORF4 have overlapping regions and encode putative proteins of 154 aa, 53aa and 429aa, respectively. All three ORFs have unknown functions. Based on the genomic structure, homology searches, and phylogenetic analysis, FpFV1 could be a new member of the proposed “Fusariviridae”. This is the first report of a fusarivirus that infects F. pseudograminearum.
Systematic Review on Utilization of Whatsapp in Education
Authors: SELVAN TAMIL , KALAIYARASAN
Published: November 2023

In this era, digital education technology, information and communication technologies have changed learning. WhatsApp group education has emerged because it can take place anytime and everywhere as compared to an offline approach. Students are slowly gaining confidence in digital education, but there are also drawbacks, associated with cheating and misuse of educational information. The aim of this research is to examine how WhatsApp can be used in the context of education. This paper presents a thorough analysis of the use of WhatsApp in education, drawing upon 14 relevant studies published from 2014 to 2020. The results reveal that students are positive about utilising WhatsApp groups for learning. This paper is an attempt to bring conceptual clarity about utilization of WhatsApp groups in education and to suggest technical security measures that can be adopted.
Evaluation of Grape Fruits during Microwave Drying by Image processing
Authors: Ali Shaimaa R. , Anwar Osama , El-Raouf Abd El-Rahman Abd , El-Sayed helmy
Published: November 2023

The current study concentrated on microwave drying of grapes and how it affected the color and textural characteristics of grape raisins as they dried. Two coordinate color scales (RGB and Lab scales) were used to study the texture of the color, and color analysis was done in the Hunter color lab. Data showed that the amount of time needed for microwave drying was quite small (50 minutes). In comparison to the control and other dried samples, the microwave dried sample (50 minutes) displayed improved color texture (RGB or/and Lab) and product quality (TSS, pH, and MC). This can help small-scale business owners and farmers produce high-quality raisins, and it can also be used to control quality using image processing techniques.
Knowledge, usability and challenges of e-learning platforms for continuing professional development of healthcare providers at university teaching hospital of Kigali
Authors: Agnes Mukamana , Claude Byungura Jean , Felix Manirakiza , Gerard Rushingabigwi
Published: November 2023

Background Healthcare providers constitute a critical component of clinical care services. To provide the expected service, they must continuously develop their profession through continuous learning. This kind of learning is recognized as continuing professional development (CPD). Traditionally, CPD is offered onsite. Onsite training is associated with some barriers that prevent healthcare providers from attending such educational activities, including financial difficulties and long distance. This is why online learning is proposed to overcome these barriers. Objective The main purpose was to evaluate usability, knowledge and challenges of e-learning platforms for CPD of healthcare providers at University Teaching Hospital of Kigali (CHUK) Methods The cross-sectional quantitative study approach was utilized; the data was collected at the workplace of nurses, midwives, and allied health professionals by using a pre-designed questionnaire. The data were analyzed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 25 and presented as frequencies. Results A significant majority was aware of CPD e-learning platforms. For example, 95.7% of the participants were familiar with these platforms, indicating that they had some degree of knowledge about their existence and purpose. Regarding the mode of accessing CPD courses, 82.1% of participants preferred online platforms, demonstrating a strong will to use e-learning platforms. Conclusion Study highlighted a high level of awareness and utilization of CPD e-learning platforms among healthcare providers at CHUK,additionally, participants expressed confidence in using the platforms but emphasized the need for further support and training.
RETRACTED: Evaluation of the prostate cancer and its metastases in the 68-Ga-PSMA PET/CT images: deep learning method vs. conventional PET/CT processing
Authors: Giv Masoumeh Dorri , Arabi Hosein , Jouybari Raheleh Tabari , Firouzabad Leila Alipour , Akbari-Lalimi Hossein , Aghaei Atena , Dabbagh Amir Hosein , Golestani Zahra Bakhshi , Kakhki Vahid Reza Dabbagh
Published: November 2023

The authors have requested that this preprint be removed from Research Square.
Multispectral remote sensing approach of predicting the potential distribution and evaluating the current spread of water hyacinth (Eichhornia crassipes)
Authors: Churko Esayas Elias , Munyaradzi Chitakira , Nhamo Luxon
Published: November 2023

The water hyacinth is categorized among the world’s top ten worst invasive plant species of aquatic ecosystems. This study assessed changes in the spatiotemporal distributions of the water hyacinth in Lake Koka and Ziway of the Upper Awash River basin during the peak growth season of the plant. Household questionnaire and key informant interview along with Landsat images for 2013, 2017, and 2021 were collected to identify the past, present, and future potential distributions of the invasive plant in the two lakes. Household surveys and key informant interview prepared using the Kobo Toolbox which monitors data collection online. A total number of 413 households were sampled and the data were analyzed through descriptive statistics. For Landsat images a supervised classification technique was applied to classify the land use classes using the maximum likelihood algorithm. The survey result shown in increased water hyacinth expansion in the area since the year 2011. The water hyacinth expansion affected 285 households livelihood by invading 69.0% their farm lands that caused 97.6% food scarcity on the study districts. The results of Landsat image indicated that the water hyacinth invasion in Lake Koka occupied 1.48% in 2013, and this raised to 7.13% in 2021, while the water body decreased from 75.94–69.90%, respectively. However, the area of the other vegetation is nearly identical between the years 2013–2021. Likewise, water hyacinth covered 4.66% of Lake Ziway in 2013, and this was raised to 8.42% in 2021. At Lake Ziway water hyacinth invasion affected the area of other vegetation coverage as it decreased from 16.19–10.67% but the area of the water body remained almost the same during the years. Between 2013 and 2025, the amount of water hyacinths increased in both Lake Koka and Lake Ziway. According to LULC data, the water hyacinth's rate of spread was 0.56% in Lake Koka and 0.95% in Lake Ziway. The results of this study revealed the signals of LULC change due to water hyacinth invasion in the Upper Awash Basin that to be considered as important aspect for future water resources planning and LULC management.
Invasive versus non-invasive ventilation for acute respiratory failure
Authors: saleh Synial chikh , Badria Lana , Al-Bardan Hussam
Published: November 2023

Abstract:
Background: This case-control study aimed to assess the efficacy and outcomes of noninvasive ventilation (NIV) compared to invasive positive pressure ventilation (IPPV) in managing respiratory failure caused by many conditions, with a specific focus on mortality reduction.
Methods: The patients were allocated to either intermittent noninvasive ventilation (NIV) or invasive positive pressure ventilation (IPPV). Clinical indicators, including respiratory rate (RR), blood pressure (BP), heart rate (HR), and arterial blood gas parameters (pH, PaCO2, PaO2), were assessed before treatment and 24-hours post-treatment. Demographic data, such as age, gender, length of hospital stay, and clinical outcomes, were documented.
Results: A total of 36 patients were included in the noninvasive ventilation (NIV) group, while 64 patients were assigned to receive invasive positive pressure ventilation (IPPV). The mean age in the NIV group was 6552, whereas it was 58.81 in the IPPV group (p= 0.0411). In the IPPV group, the average values of arterial blood gas parameters, including pH, and PCO2 were 7.37±0.14, 36.91±14.11, respectively. In the NIV group, the corresponding values were 7.39±0.10, 35.4±21.23. Following 24 hours of treatment, the clinical and ventilation parameters remained stable in the two groups. The mean length of hospital stay was 6.75±6.93 days in the IPPV group and 10.47±11.46 days in the NIV group (p<0.05).
Conclusion: This study suggests that there were no significant distinctions observed between noninvasive positive pressure ventilation (NIPPV) and invasive positive pressure ventilation (IPPV) in terms of the management of respiratory failure, with both modalities demonstrating comparable success rates. Additionally, no notable variations were identified between NIPPV and IPPV regarding hospital stay, intubation rates, and associated complications.