bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Estimating the causal effect of dexamethasone versus hydrocortisone on the neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio in critically ill COVID-19 patients from Tygerberg Hospital ICU using targeted maximum likelihood estimation method
Authors: Nkuhairwe Ivan Nicholas , Esterhuizen Tonya , Sigwadhi Lovemore Nyasha , Tamuzi Jacques L. , Machekano Rhoderick , Nyasulu Peter S.
Published: October 2023

Background
Causal inference from observational studies is a study topic that has advanced fast over the years, as have methods for causal effect estimation. Among them, Targeted Maximum Likelihood estimation (TMLE) possesses the most outstanding statistical properties, and with no outright treatment for COVID-19, there was an opportunity to estimate the causal effect of dexamethasone versus hydrocortisone upon the neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), a vital indicator for disease progression among critically ill COVID-19 patients. This study is designed to show the application of TMLE variations to estimate the causal effect of dexamethasone versus hydrocortisone on the neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio in critically ill COVID-19 patients.
Methods
We retrospectively analysed data from the first and second COVID-19 waves, including critically ill COVID-19 patients. TMLE variations were used in the analysis and Super Learner (SL), Bayesian Additive Regression Trees (BART) and parametric regression (PAR) were implemented to estimate the average treatment effect (ATE) and its 95%CI Statistical analysis was carried out with ltmle package in R-software. Result presented in graph and tables.
Results
The study had 168 participants, 128 on dexamethasone and 40 on hydrocortisone. The mean causal difference in NLR on day 5; ATE [95% CI]: from SL-TMLE was − 2.28[-6.811, 2.246], BART-TMLE − 2.10[-6.464, 2.262] and PAR-TMLE − 2.16[-5.710, 1.397]. The ATE of dexamethasone versus hydrocortisone on NLR was not statistically significant since the confidence interval included zero.
Conclusion
In critically ill COVID-19 patients admitted to ICU, the effect of dexamethasone on NLR was not significantly different from that of hydrocortisone. This means that the variation in NLR impact between the two medicines may be attributable to random chance. However, TMLE remains an excellent tool for causal analysis of observational research, with the ability to be supplemented by numerous prediction approaches.
Ultrasonographically determined kidney volume and progression to end-stage kidney disease in pediatric chronic kidney disease: data from the KNOW-Ped CKD study
Authors: Kim Ji Hyun , Ahn Yo Han , Yang Eun Mi , Park Eujin , Song Ji Yeon , Baek Hee Sun , Kim Jeong Yeon , Lee Keum Hwa , Shin Jae Il , Cho Heeyeon , Jung Jiwon , Lee Joo Hoon , Park Young Seo , Ha Il-Soo , Gang Hee Gyung , Cho Min Hyun , Han Kyoung Hee
Published: October 2023

Background
We investigated the relationship between ultrasonographically determined renal volume relative to body surface area (BSA) and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) and determined whether chronic kidney disease (CKD) progression outcomes could be predicted based on each kidney volume ratio in pediatric patients with CKD.
Methods
From the KNOW–ped CKD cohort, 304 patients who underwent renal ultrasonography (US) were investigated for the kidney’s length and depth in the longitudinal axis and the width in the transverse plane passing through the hilum’s center. The formula, 0.523×length×depth×width, was used to calculate each kidney volume. The total kidney volume (TKV) was the sum of the volumes of each kidney and was adjusted for BSA. Each kidney volume ratio was calculated as the ratio of the smaller to the large kidney volume.
Results
Scatter plot and linear regression analysis revealed the relationship between eGFR and BSA–adjusted TKV, and this linear relationship differed significantly based on the percentile ratio of each kidney volume. Q2 quartile of each kidney volume ratio had a significantly lower risk in CAKUT, while Q1 had higher risk of requiring renal replacement therapy compared to single kidney in GN.
Conclusion
The relationship between eGFR and BSA–adjusted TKV in pediatric patients with CKD differed based on CKD’s primary etiology and the asymmetry derived from each kidney volume ratio. This asymmetric renal morphological change based on each renal volume ratio is clinically reflected in predicting the prognosis of CKD progression in children.
Trial registration number and date of registration:
NCT number NCT02165878 on June 11, 2014.
Cyclophosphamide and horse anti-thymocyte globulin versus fludarabine, reduced cyclophosphamide and rabbit anti-thymocyte globulin conditioning regimen for allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation from matched sibling donors in patients with acquired aplastic anemia
Authors: Abdeljelil Nour Ben , Yaiche Insaf Ben , Ouerghi Rihab , Torjeman Lamia , Belloumi Dorra , Turki Ines , Mekni Sabrine , Kanoun Rimel Yousr , Othman Tarek Ben , Ladeb Saloua
Published: October 2023

Objective: Allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo-HSCT) is the only curative treatment for acquired aplastic anemia (acquired AA) in young patients. The objective of the study was to compare patient outcomes after Cyclophosphamide and horse antithymocyte globulin (Cy-hATG) versus Fludarabine-cyclophosphamide and rabbit ATG (Flu-Cy-rATG) as part of conditioning regimen in allo-HSCT for acquired AA.
Methods: Descriptive retrospective study conducted on patients with acquired AA who received allo-HSCT from HLA-matched sibling donors between January 2008 and August 2022 after conditioning regimen with Cy-hATG or Flu-Cy-rATG.
Results: A total of 121 patients were enrolled. Cumulative incidence of graft failure was 11.2% in Cy-hATG and 5.3% Flu-Cy-rATG group (p=0.4). There were no significant differences between the two groups in terms of grade II-IV acute GVHD, chronic GVHD and transplant related mortality. Flu-Cy-rATG group was associated with significantly higher CMV and EBV reactivation(s) compared to Cy-hATG group. After a median follow-up of 58 months (range, 5 days-165 months), estimated overall survival, event-free survival and graft rejection-free survival were not statistically different between the two groups.
Conclusion: In high-risk population, Flu-Cy-rATG is associated with comparable outcomes to Cy-hATG in allo-HSCT from MSD. However, it seems to be associated with signiﬁcant risk of viral infections.
Trajectories of mental health outcomes following COVID-19 infection: a prospective longitudinal study
Authors: Badinlou Farzaneh , Rahimian Fatemeh , Hedman-Lagerlöf Maria , Lundgren Tobias , Abzhandadze Tamar , Jansson-Fröjmark Markus
Published: October 2023

Background
The COVID-19 pandemic has triggered a global mental health crisis. Yet, we know little about the lasting effects of COVID-19 infection on mental health. This prospective longitudinal study aimed to investigate the trajectories of mental health changes over time in individuals infected with COVID-19 and to identify potential predictors that may influence these changes.
Methods
A web-survey that targeted individuals that had been infected with COVID-19 was used at three time-points: T0 (baseline), T1 (six months), and T2 (twelve months). The survey included demographics, questions related to COVID-19 status, previous psychiatric diagnosis, post-COVID impairments, fatigue, and standardized measures of depression, anxiety, insomnia.
Results
A total of 236 individuals completed assessments and was included in the longitudinal sample. The results revealed notable changes in mental health outcomes over time. The trajectory of depression showed significant improvement over time while the trends in anxiety and insomnia did not exhibit significant changes over time. The younger age group and individuals who experienced severe COVID-19 infection in the acute phase were identified as high-risk groups with worst mental ill-health. The main predictors of the changes in the mental health outcomes were fatigue and post-COVID impairments.
Conclusions
The findings of our study suggest that mental health outcomes following COVID-19 infection exhibit a dynamic pattern over time. The study provides valuable insights into the mental health trajectory following COVID-19 infection, emphasizing the need for ongoing assessment, support, and interventions tailored to the evolving mental health needs of this population.
Strategies towards submicron size and high performance magnetic PGMA@Fe3O4@SiO2-COOH microspheres with biological application
Authors: Xia Tianhao , Wang Yunpeng , Awasthi Pragati , Dong Wenkun , Li Mengting , Qiao Xvsheng , Chen Dong , Ling Shisheng , Fan Xianping
Published: October 2023

The separation of target substances is a significant biological detection procedure, where magnetic microspheres can act as high-performance separation materials. However, challenges are still kept to fulfill all the requirements. In this study, a type of submicron magnetic poly (glycidyl methacrylate) (PGMA) microsphere was prepared with an in situ coprecipitation method, an electrostatic self-assembly method, and a silica surface coating method. Firstly, the PGMA microspheres were synthesized by a soap-free emulsion polymerization method, and surface charge density determined the coagulation process, further influencing the size and monodispersity. Then we found the Superparamagnetism properties of magnetic microspheres could be well controlled by the capping agent sodium citrate (Na3Cit), and the superparamagnetic critical size was 10.9 nm. Also, the saturation magnetization was well controlled by the Fe2+ and Fe3+ concentration, which was correlated with the nucleation rate of Fe3O4 crystal. Furthermore, we proved that the electrostatic self-assembly was guided by pH, and it was proposed to tightly couple the PGMA-NH2 microspheres with positive charges and Fe3O4 nanoparticles with negative charges. Finally, the PGMA@Fe3O4 microspheres were coated with SiO2, surface modified by carboxyl groups for application. The PGMA@Fe3O4 and carboxyl-modified microspheres exhibited saturated magnetization values of 23.73 and 17.73 emu/g, respectively. These microspheres have been effectively utilized for the extraction of DNA from various sources such as Salmonella typhi, monkeypox virus, and clinical swab samples, suggesting the potential of these microspheres for nucleic acid separation in the biomedical domain.
The risk of mortality and morbidity could be accurately estimated using perioperative risk score systems
Authors: Saad Hassan A. , Baz Azza , Riad Mohamed , Eraky Mohamed E , El-Taher Ahmed K , Farid Mohamed I , Sharaf Khaled
Published: October 2023

Context
According to national guidelines, a mortality risk assessment should be performed on all patients undergoing emergency surgery at the time of admission. This will allow the hospital to assign the "high-risk" patient the proper seniority and level of care. Our goal was to determine whether perioperative risk scoring systems could reliably estimate the risk of death and morbidity.
Methods
86 consecutive emergency laparotomies had their mortality risk scores determined using pre-operative risk calculation techniques (ASA, Lee index) and post-operative risk calculation tools (POSSUM, P-POSSUM, and CR-POSSUM). Using the Clavien-Dindo classification, morbidity risk scores were computed using the POSSUM projected morbidity and compared to actual morbidity.
Results
In reality, the death rate was 10.5%. All laparotomies had average predicted risk scores of 26.5% for ASA, 2.5% for Lee Index, 29.5% for POSSUM, 18.5% for P-POSSUM, and 10.5% for CR-POSSUM.
Seventy-eight percent of the 67 laparotomies had complications. Most (51%) of the problems were categorized as non-life-threatening in Clavien-Dindo grades 2–3.
Compared to patients who projected a morbidity risk of less than or equal to 50%, patients with a POSSUM morbidity risk of greater than 50% suffered significantly more life-threatening complications (CD 4-5) (P = 0.01).
Summary
Because the ASA overpredicts mortality risk and the Lee Index underpredicts it, pre-operative risk categorization is still difficult. We propose that patients who need intensive care after surgery can be identified with greater accuracy by utilizing the CR-POSSUM for post-operative risk grading.
In conclusion
It is impossible to audit the fulfillment of national standards of care for the "high-risk" patient in a reliable manner in the absence of reliable risk scoring instruments that can be utilized at the time of hospital admission.
Are environmental characteristics associated with hypertension and diabetes? Evidence from Ordos, China
Authors: Hao Siwen , Yang Yiqun , Gao Dong , Guo Qin , Hou Lu , Meng Yufei
Published: October 2023

Although previous studies have explored the positive effects of natural environments on human health, few studies have examined the effects of different environmental characteristics on hypertension and diabetes. We aimed to identify a correlation between various environmental characteristics and the number of patients with hypertension and diabetes using the Delphi method, Pearson analysis, and a multiple regression model. The prevalence of hypertension and diabetes was significantly correlated with environmental characteristics, and correlated characteristics of hypertension and diabetes were identified. Future hypertension and diabetes-friendly environments should improve green space coverage and quality, and provide environments to support more physical activity as well as the opportunity to be exposed to natural elements.
Research on the coupling measurement of medical higher education and health resource allocation in the context of healthy China
Authors: Zhu Yan , Song Zhilong , Li Siyuan , Wu Xiangwei , Chen jieting
Published: October 2023

Background: To analyze the coupling coordination level of medical education and health resource allocation in China to promote efficient resource allocation and provide a scientific basis for high-quality medical education development.
Methods: Based on panel data from 2011 to 2021, the coupling coordination degree model was used to measure the coupling coordination index of medical education and health resources in China by analyzing the spatial autocorrelation model two-system development and distribution characteristics of the coupling coordination degree, using kernel density estimation method analysis of the two-coordinate system coupling dynamic evolution trend, and usingthe QR quantile regression model to explore the key factors influencing the coupling coordination degree of the two systems.
Results: During the observation period, the two-system coupling coordination degree increased from 0.393 to 0.465, with a growth rate of 18.3%. With space correlation among the provinces and 25.81% of the provinces in transition, in the process of the dynamic distribution system of the two coupling coordination degrees of the polarization curve gradually increased. Per capita GDP, population scale, research and development innovation are two driving systems coupling strong coordinated development.
Conclusion: Regarding the allocation of health resources and medical education in Turkey, the coupling coordination degree increases steadily, but the spatial agglomeration identities are polarized, and social, economic and demographic factors have different degrees of influence on coupling the two systems. Coordinated development mechanisms to innovate on the basis of the two systems promote medical higher education and the allocation of health resources in the two-way flow of talent, technology and other factors, in turn promoting the system coupling of coordinated development.
Geriatric nutritional risk index and newly developed scoring system as prognosis prediction for unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma patients treated with lenvatinib
Authors: Ohama Hideko , Hiraoka Atsushi , Tada Toshifumi , Hirooka Masashi , Kariyama Kazuya , Tani Joji , Atsukawa Masanori , Takaguchi Koichi , Itobayashi Ei , Fukunishi Shinya , Tsuji Kunihiko , Ishikawa Toru , Tajiri Kazuto , Ochi Hironori , Yasuda Satoshi , Toyoda Hidenori , Ogawa Chikara , Nishimura Takashi , Hatanaka Takeshi , Kakizaki Satoru , Shimada Noritomo , Kawata Kazuhito , Naganuma Atsushi , Kosaka Hisashi , Matono Tomomitsu , Kuroda Hidekatsu , Yata Yutaka , Tanaka Hironori , Nishikawa Hiroki , Shibata Hiroshi , Tada Fujimasa , Nouso Kazuhiro , Morishita Asahiro , Tsutsui Akemi , Nagano Takuya , Itokawa Norio , Okubo Tomomi , Arai Taeang , Imai Michitaka , Koizumi Yohei , Nakamura Shinichiro , Iijima Hiroko , Kaibori Masaki , Hiasa Yoichi , Kumada Takashi
Published: October 2023

Background/Aim:
In the current era of immune therapy, lenvatinib (LEN) continues to be vital for treating unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma (uHCC) patients. This study investigates the importance of nutritional status in the prognosis of uHCC patients receiving LEN treatment and evaluates a new prognostic scoring system that combines the geriatric nutritional risk index (GNRI) and systemic inflammatory response.
Methods:
From April 2018 to December 2022, 484 uHCC patients treated with LEN (384 males, median age 73). Prognostic value was compared between the GNRI and C-reactive protein(CRP) scoring(GNRI-C score), GNRI, and neo-Glasgow prognostic score(neo-GPS) using modified albumin-bilirubin grade and CRP. Evaluation was based on the Akaike information criterion(AIC) and concordance index(c-index).
Results:
Median progression-free survival(mPFS) was 9.3/6.8/4.6 months for GNRI no-risk/low-risk/moderate-to-major risk(p<0.01, AIC 4742.4/c-index 0.585). Median overall survival(mOS) was 27.8/15.2/9.5 months(p<0.01, AIC 3433.34/c-index 0.639). For GNRI-C score, mPFS was 10.8/7.1/5.6/4.0 months(score 0/1/2/3) (p<0.01, AIC 4732.82/c-index 0.6), while neo-GPS showed mPFS of 8.5/5.1/5.2 months(p<0.01, AIC 4745.89/c-index 0.562). For mOS, GNRI-C score demonstrated 28.6/20.0/10.1/8.4 months(score 0/1/2/3) (p<0.01, AIC 3420.27/c-index 0.652), while neo-GPS indicated 21.0/12.4/ /4.5 months (p<0.01, AIC 3468.84/c-index 0.564).
Discussion/Conclusion:
The newly devised GNRI-C score, incorporating nutritional and inflammatory markers, could offer improved prognostic predictions for uHCC patients treated with LEN.
Comparative study of modified Koyanagi and staged Duckett for proximal hypospadias
Authors: Ji Fengming , Tang Haoyu , Chen Junlin , Yao Guiping , ZhangHuang Chenghao , Yan Bing
Published: October 2023

Aim
To compare and analyze the clinical efficacy of modified Koyanagi and staged Duckett for proximal hypospadias.
Method
The clinical and prognostic data of children were treated and underwent surgery (modified Koyanagi or stage Duckett) in the Department of Urology, Kunming Children's Hospital from January 2020 to January 2023 were retrospectively analyzed. According to different surgical methods, the subjects were divided into the modified Koyanagi group and the staged Duckett group. Patients in both groups were followed up for more than 6 months after surgery. The success rate and complications of postoperative surgery in both groups were analyzed.
Result
A total of 63 patients were included in this study, 34 in the modified Koyanagi group and 29 in the staged Duckett group. A total of 14 patients in the modified Koyanagi group experienced postoperative complications, the success rate of the surgery was 58.82%, and 5 among them experienced more than two kinds of complications. A total of 5 children in the staging Duckett group experienced postoperative complications, and the success rate of the operation was 82.75%. There were significant differences in the incidence of overall complications and fistula between the two surgical methods (P = 0.028).
A Quantum-Levy and variable neighborhood-enhanced metaheuristic for supply hub-based green pickup heterogeneous vehicle routing problem
Authors: Zhou Binghai , Wang Honghui
Published: October 2023

Due to the growing interest in green logistics and the challenge of just-in-time part logistics, as well as considering the current popularity of supply hub, this paper focuses on a supply hub-based green pickup heterogeneous vehicle routing problem with capacity constraints (CGPHVRP) in the automobile industry. An integer programming model is therefore established, aiming to minimize the total energy consumption for executing all pickup tasks and the total penalty costs imposed on early and late deliveries. The epsilon constraint method is utilized to verify the validity of the proposed model. To solve this problem which is inherently NP-hard, a Quantum-Levy and variable neighborhood-enhanced multi-objective honey badger algorithm (QLVNMHBA) is proposed. Taking advantages of both Quantum behavior and Levy flight, the Quantum-Levy strategy is presented to enhance the exploration. Simultaneously, the adaptive variable neighborhood search including three innovative neighborhood operators is designed to enhance the exploitation and fasten the convergence speed. Furthermore, the convex lens imaging opposition-based learning is applied to initialize the population. Finally, computational experiments reveal that the QLVNMHBA outperforms the other four state-of-the-art algorithms in both solution quality and convergence speed, and the use of heterogeneous fleet could achieve significant reductions in energy consumption over a homogeneous one. Moreover, a specific case is applied to demonstrate the practicality of the proposed model and algorithm.
Nutritional composition of cricket, Brachytrupes membranaceus (Drury, 1770) and selected animal source foods in Cross River State, Nigeria
Authors: Okweche Simon Idoko , Ugwu Queendaline. O , Oko Pius Agaji
Published: October 2023

Brachytrupes membranaceus (Drury) is one of the edible crickets consumed in Nigeria as a source of nutrient proteins by majorly children, specifically during the wet seasons of the year. This study was conducted to compare the nutrient content of cricket and other animal protein sources. Majority of Nigerians are in dire need of alternative food sources with high protein contents other than the most commonly used; beef, goat meat, chicken, and fish which cannot be afforded by the majority of low-income earners. There is a lack of information on the nutrient composition of edible insects with particular reference to crickets in Nigeria. Nutrient composition (moisture content, ash content, fat, crude fibre, crude protein, and carbohydrate) of cricket, fish, egg, goat meat, and beef was therefore evaluated in the Department of Physical and Applied Chemistry, University of Calabar, Nigeria. Moisture content was determined by percentage moisture using the oven drying method as described by the Association of Official Analytical Chemists. Fat content was determined using the procedure of AOAC using n-hexane as solvent. Crude fibre was determined by sequential hot digestion of defatted sample with dilute acid and alkaline solutions. Crude protein content was evaluated using the macro Kjeldahl method. Carbohydrate was determined by differential calculation which involves carbohydrates, moisture content, protein and crude ash. The result showed that cricket has low amount of ash, high amount of crude fibre, low carbohydrate compared with other sources. However, cricket and fish recorded higher amount of protein compared with other nutrient sources. Although fish was the most expensive source of food source that could easily be afforded by the upper class. In conclusion, edible insects which have little or no value in our daily diet are strongly recommended for consumption due to their protein content and cost, which is significantly lower than other protein sources.
Heatwave predicts a shady future for insects: impacts of an extreme weather event on a chalk grassland in Bedfordshire, UK.
Authors: Hayes Matthew P. , Ashe-Jepson Esme , Hitchcock Gwen E. , Clark Ryan , Hellon Josh , Knock Richard I. , Bladon Andrew J. , Turner Edgar C.
Published: October 2023

Climate change is set to become one of the leading causes of biodiversity loss worldwide, with extreme weather events projected to increase in frequency. Ectothermic animals such as insects are at particular risk, especially when they are isolated and unable to move through the landscape to track suitable climate. To protect such taxa, it is important to understand how they are impacted by extreme weather events and whether management could provide effective microclimate refuges. However, potential management interventions remain untested for many species. Here, we show that extreme high temperatures experienced in the UK on 19th July 2022 resulted in a community of butterflies becoming inactive, but that shaded areas, including artificial slopes created as part of conservation management for climate change, provided a refuge during this period. Our results indicate that future high temperatures could force butterflies to shelter in the shade, potentially being unable to fly, feed or mate during these periods, with potential long-term impacts.
Implications for Insect Conservation
Producing artificial slopes and integrating patches of scrub within grassland could create an array of microclimates that allow butterflies and other invertebrates to thermoregulate, providing a refuge during extreme weather events. Our findings highlight the dramatic effect of extreme temperatures on insect communities, as well as simple management solutions that could be implemented widely and relatively easily by conservation managers, to counter some of the negative impacts of rising temperatures and extreme weather events.
Primary Pancreatic GIST- A single centre case series and systematic review of literature
Authors: Gupta Vipul , Chopde Amit , Chaudhari Vikram , Bal Munita , Shrikhande Shailesh V , Bhandare Manish
Published: October 2023

There is evolving literature on similarities and differences between GIST and EGIST. Despite their behavioural similarities, results cannot be generalised to larger population due to lack of evidence. Pancreatic GIST is a rare entity. There are many documented case reports, however long term data is unavailable. Our case series is by far the largest single centre series with long follow up data but with limited number of cases. Survival values cannot be generalised due to limited data. Large case series are required to further understand the disease biology and long term outcomes of pancreatic GIST.
The impact of inflammatory cells on lung function in asthmatics in a cross sectional retrospect study
Authors: Li Yujuan , Jin Faguang , Zhao Qi , Chen Yanwei , Liu Gang
Published: October 2023

Background: Limited data exists on the impact of inflammatory cells and clinical characteristics on lung function in individuals with asthma.
Objective: The objective is to examine the correlation between increased inflammatory cells, asthma symptoms, and lung function in patients with asthma in a clinical setting.
Methods: A retrospective cohort study was conducted on 234 individuals suspected of having asthma in Xian, China between January 2008 and December 2021. Of those, 143 patients with complete clinical feature and lung function data were enrolled to examine the relationship between increased inflammatory cells, asthma symptoms, and lung function. Basic characteristics, blood eosinophil count, blood neutrophil count, blood platelet count, blood C-reactive protein (CRP), and comprehensive lung function analysis were evaluated at each inpatient for the 143 adult asthmatics. The association between inflammatory cells and clinical parameters with pulmonary function was compared.
Results: The results of the study showed that individuals in the alcohol intake group had elevated blood eosinophil count compared to those in the non-alcohol intake group (P=0.024). Long-acting inhaled beta 2 agonists and antibiotic therapy were associated with lower blood eosinophil count (P=0.021 and P=0.049, respectively) compared to other therapy.There was a independent association between blood eosinophil counts and FEV1 pre- and post-therapy in asthma but there was a markedly correlation between blood eosinophil counts and FEV1/FVC pre-and post-therapy in Asthma(P=0.007). Blood neutrophil counts were inversely correlated with FEV1/FVC after treatment (P=0.032). Night onset in asthma was positively correlated with blood neutrophil counts, while fever was negatively correlated with blood CRP (P=0.028). Platelet counts >300×109/L after treatment were significantly associated with a decline in FEV (<0.001) in patients with asthma. Elevated blood eosinophil count was independently associated with clinical features in asthma.
Conclusions: Based on the study's findings, there is a significant decline in FEV1/FVC among individuals with elevated blood eosinophil count, both pre- and post-bronchodilator while there was a independent relationship between blood eosinophil counts and FEV1 pre-and post-therapy in asthma. This suggests that increased levels of eosinophils may independently associated contribute to reduced lung function in asthma patients.
A Two-Fault Detection and Elimination Approach to the Receiver Autonomous Integrity Monitoring
Authors: WU Qi'an
Published: October 2023

The Receiver Autonomous Integrity Monitoring (RAIM) technique is very important for the GNSS receiver to detect faulty measurement sources before they mislead the positioning solution. Based on the parity RAIM method, a simple algorithm to detect and eliminate one fault is provided. However, there is no such a simple algorithm to detect and eliminate two faults. A general approach is traversing all possible fault cases and calculate the sum of the squares of the residual errors (SSE) of each case by solving the observation equation. However, solving the observation equation takes a lot of computation. This paper proposes a detection and elimination algorithm that can deal with no more than 2 faults, based on the least-squares-residual method. The new algorithm avoids solving the observation equation for each possible fault cases, and has very low computational complexity. Simulations are done to evaluate the performance of the algorithm, and the effect of the satellite geometry conditions on the algorithm is also discussed.
GDF15 Improves Lipopolysaccharide-Induced Myocardial Dysfunction By Inhibiting Cardiomyocyte Ferroptosis Via The SOCS1/GPX4 Signaling Pathway Regulation
Authors: Li Xiayun , Zhang Liyun , Zhu Hanzhao , Zhang Bin , Yang Jiachang , Wang Xiaoya , Sun Jingwei , Zhou Yang , Zhai Mengen , Yi Wei , Jiang Liqing , Duan Weixun
Published: October 2023

Septic cardiomyopathy is a cardiac disease with an extremely high mortality rate. Cardiomyocyte ferroptosis is an important pathological process in septic cardiomyopathy, which is attributed to reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and lipid peroxidation. Growth differentiation factor 15 (GDF15) has significant antioxidant effects and exerts therapeutic effects in cardiovascular diseases. However, the function and mechanism of GDF15 in septic cardiomyopathy remain unclear. A sepsis model was established by intraperitoneal injection of lipopolysaccharide (LPS, 10 mg/kg) to C57BL/6 male mice. Subsequently, cardiac function was assessed, indicators of myocardial ROS, lipid peroxidation and ferroptosis were also detected. We found that myocardial systolic function was severely impaired in parallel with ROS accumulation, enhanced lipid peroxidation, and increased cardiomyocyte ferroptosis in septic mice, after injecting GDF15, these adverse changes were markedly reversed. Whereas GDF15 antibody (Ab-GDF15) treatment, which can neutralize GDF15 in the circulation, made adverse cardiac changes worse. In terms of the mechanism, RNA sequencing showed that suppressor of cytokine signaling 1 (SOCS1) is a key regulatory molecule downstream of GDF15. Additionally, GDF15 significantly enhanced the expression of ferroptosis markers glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4) by inhibiting SOCS1 expression. Overexpression of SOCS1 reversed the beneficial effects of GDF15 on cardiac function, and promoted cardiomyocyte ferroptosis. Above findings demonstrate that GDF15 improves cardiac function and reduces cardiomyocyte ferroptosis by regulating the SOCS1/GPX4 signaling pathway in septic cardiomyopathy. This experiment provides a basis for further evaluation of GDF15 as a therapeutic agent for septic cardiomyopathy.
Extremely Efficient Adsorption of Rhodamine B dye from Aqueous Solutions onto Modified Olive Stone Activated Carbon: Modelling and Optimization Studies
Authors: Can Mert , OZCAN Duygu OVA , OVEZ Bikem
Published: October 2023

In this study, the adsorption performances of ZnCl2, KOH and H3PO4 impregnated activated carbons derived from olive stones in the removal of Rhodamine B dye from aqueous solution were investigated. The equilibrium time was determined to be 6 hours, and the highest adsorption capacity was achieved by ZnCl2 impregnation (190.67 mg g-1) followed by KOH (118.26 mg g-1), H3PO4 (49.81 mg g-1), and crude olive stones (21.57 mg g-1) compared to the commercial powdered activated carbon (254.30 mg g-1). While different pH values (2-10) did not exhibit much effect, pH 4 was the most efficient one. The sorption capacity reached equilibrium at 200 mg L-1 of initial dye concentration. 0.01 gram of ZOSAC had 39% removal performance, whereas 0.05 gram was found to be sufficient for 100% removal. The presence of background ions enhanced the adsorption of Rhodamine B. Pseudo-second order model (R2=0.99) was most suitable for the experimental data among kinetic models. Redlich-Peterson (R2>0.98) model was found to be most suitable equilibrium model for all ACs. The temperature increase from 30 to 50℃ had an increasing effect on the adsorption capacity. It was also revealed that the adsorption was endothermic (∆H°=14.91 kJ mol-1) and thermodynamically favorable (∆G°<0) for ZOSAC. At the end of the fifth adsorption/desorption cycle, the removal efficiency was 94% and optimum adsorption conditions were determined as 45 ℃ and 252 mg L-1. As a result, ZOSAC was found to be the most efficient and reusable impregnated olive stone derived activated carbon in the Rhodamine B removal.
Harnessing exogenous membrane vesicles for studying Fusarium circinatum and its biofilm communities
Authors: Motaung Thabiso E , Ratsoma Francinah M , Kunene Sithembile , Santana Quentin C , Steenkamp Emma T , Wingfield Brenda D
Published: October 2023

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are tiny messengers that convey bioactive molecules from donor to recipient cells, leading to changes in their physiology and function. We investigated the role of EVs in shaping growth and the biofilm biology of the tree pathogen Fusarium circinatum and its interaction with the susceptible host, Pinus patula. Vesicles were collected from fungal planktonic and biofilm cultures and from pine seedling needles and roots. The physical properties of these vesicles were analysed using nanoparticle tracking analysis and transmission electron microscopy, which revealed a diverse range of sizes and shapes, respectively. Furthermore, uptake of vesicles by conidia demonstrated that F. circinatum EVs significantly but variably affected spore viability during the early phase (2-4 h) although they enhanced biomass and extracellular matrix (ECM) production in biofilms. In contrast, P. patulaEVs greatly inhibited hyphal formation and biofilm biomass, but failed to inhibit ECM biosynthesis in the fungal biofilm. Our results therefore suggest that conidial germination is essential for late fungal development including hyphal and biofilm formation while matrix production may be a counter measure against harsh environmental conditions including the effects of plant-derived EVs. Therefore, plant-microbe interactions viewed within the context of biofilm formation can improve understanding into the dynamic and complex behaviours of fungal pathogens and their interactions with plant hosts.
Investigating Potential Drug Targets in Intracranial Aneurysms through Mendelian Randomization and Transcriptome Analyses
Authors: shao Dongqi , Li Yu , Xie Shan , Niu Pengyuan , Wu Junyong , Tang Huadong , Li Kaixuan , Li Qingshu , Zhang Binbin , Jiang Zhiquan
Published: October 2023

Background: Intracranial aneurysms represent one of the most common and life-threatening vascular diseases. Transcriptomics and immune cell infiltration have been shown to be critical in the occurrence and progression of intracranial aneurysms. This study aimed to investigate the key genes and immune mechanisms involved in intracranial aneurysms through bioinformatics analysis and Mendelian randomization (MR) validation.
Methods: Gene microarray datasets were obtained from the gene expression synthesis (GEO) public website. By integrating CIBERSORT, weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA), and differentially expressed genes (DEGs), we identified key genes associated with intracranial aneurysms and having the highest intracranial aneurysm connectivity. Subsequently, PPI was used to further explore the key genes. Major biological functions and signaling pathways were elucidated through gene ontology and the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG). Then, immunoinfiltration analysis of intracranial aneurysms and pivotal genes was performed. Finally, MR was performed to explore the immune mechanisms associated with intracranial aneurysms.
Results: We identified the hub gene TTK through the GEO database, WGCNA, and PPI. The nomogram showed that TTK exhibited a higher risk, the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve was greater than 0.8, and the diagnostic accuracy of TTK was higher. Immunoinfiltration confirmed that natural killer (NK) cells might be related to intracranial aneurysms and the TTK gene, and MR confirmed that absolute NK cell count was significantly related to intracranial aneurysms.
Conclusion: Our study suggests that TTK may be involved in the progression of intracranial aneurysms through the absolute count of pro-inflammatory NK cells. Thus, TTK may be a prognostic biomarker and intervention target for intracranial aneurysm.
The Impact of Meditation on Learning among College Students: An Experimental Research Study
Authors: SWARGIARY KHRITISH
Published: October 2023

This experimental research study investigates the effects of meditation on learning outcomes among college students. A sample of 50 college students from diverse academic disciplines was randomly assigned to two groups: the Meditation Group (n = 25) and the Control Group (n = 25). The Meditation Group participated in a structured meditation program, while the Control Group did not engage in any meditation practices. Learning outcomes were assessed using a pre-test and post-test. The results of this study indicate that meditation has a significant positive impact on learning among college students, suggesting its potential benefits in educational settings.
The Factorial Phenomenon: Unraveling the Mysteries of Finite Differences in Polynomials
Authors: Tusher Mahatir Ahmed , Mukeshbhai Shah Parth
Published: October 2023

This paper investigates the use of finite differences for polynomial functions of degree n. Initially, we observed the only common number in the nth steps differences between each consecutive power of the nth exponent of the ordinal numbers is the factorial of n. After that, we demonstrated that the nth order finite differences of such functions are constant with a value equal to n!. Specifically, we generate a sequence of powers of the ordinary numbers with an exponent of n, compute the finite differences of this sequence for each order from 1 to n, and observe that the result is a constant value equal to n! for each order. We have provided a proof of this observation using mathematical induction and showed that it holds true for all positive integers. We have constructed a mathematical formula that supports our statement. It is, Δn f(x) = n! . We have also presented a pseudo-code that implement the concept of finite differences and demonstrate its application for different values of n. The insights we've gathered hold significant value for the examination and construction of polynomial functions, offering applicable knowledge across diverse disciplines such as mathematics, engineering, and computer science.
A portrait of the bone mineral density of boys with Duchenne muscular dystrophy
Authors: Vale Sancha Helena de Lima , Mizumoto Ana Carolina de Melo , Lima Luana da Costa , Cunha Thais Alves , Brandão-Neto José
Published: October 2023

Introduction Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) patients are at risk of developing conditions that can compromise their bone health, such as fractures and walking impairment. We aimed to assess bone mineral density as a function of the age of DMD patients.
Materials and Methods The cross-sectional study included 48 participants. Bodyweight and height were collected to determine the height-for-age and BMI-for-age Z-scores. Lumbar spine (LS) and total body (TBLH) bone mineral density (BMD) measurements were performed with dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry. Height-for-age Z-scores (HAZ) of boys under 19 years-old were determined, and the BMD was adjusted for HAZ.
Results The DMD patients' HAZ curve is on the left compared to the WHO standard. The older patients had lower LS-BMD (p = 0.012) and TBLH-BMD (p <0.001) Z-score values than the younger patients. There was a moderate negative correlation between age and the LS-BMD Z-score (ñ = -0.49, p < 0.001), a strong negative correlation between age and the TBLH-BMD Z-score (ñ = -0.82, p < 0.001), and a moderate negative correlation between age and the TBLH-BMDHAZ (ñ = -0.33, p = 0.043).
Conclusion DMD patients have impaired linear growth, and older boys have more severe bone morbidity. For clinical evaluation of that population, it is necessary to consider the variables related to height since the delay in linear growth may underestimate the BMD Z-scores.
STUDENT ENGAGEMENT AND ACHIEVEMENT IN ONLINE VERSUS TRADITIONAL CLASSROOM INSTRUCTION: AN ANALYSIS
Authors:   Assistant Professor, Department of Educational Planning, Research and Assessment, DIET (Central), Ansari Road, Daryaganj, New Delhi-110002., Sundar Shyam
Published: October 2023

Online teaching has been popular after the pandemic of Covid-19 situation, and it could be delivered with the help of internet-connected devices through images, text, and various kinds of videos. The traditionallearning and online teachingdefinition, along with the background of the study, isthat the short-term impact of COVID-19 has led to the design of the face-to-face challenge, and there was an intended change in the teaching and learning process. The transition of traditional learning to digital learning has faced great changes, mainly in this time of pandemic. The primary data collection process, descriptive method and deductive research approach have been followed. SPSS and ANOVA, frequency analysis, and correlation have been done.Data which have gathered from 55 different students with 13 questions, and their studywas done with the software. The interpretation of data was done with SPSS.A comparison of the literature review and the relation between the collected results are analysed. Thus, it can be concluded that the traditional learning practice created more impact onstudents engagement. The online teaching process has made less engagement compared tothe transitional process.
THE POTENTIAL OF AI IN HEALTHCARE
Authors:   Student, Bal Bharati Public School., Gupta Piyush
Published: October 2023

The rise of artificial intelligence in the past decade has been on an exponential slope, with recent advancements breaking through what was seen as a roadblock. With graphs leading up to even more advancements, we need to ponder the possibilities of it affecting different aspects of studies, especially in the field of medicine. The previous studies did so in a fragmented way, under a more specialised eye. This study aims to compile some of the earlier studies and give an overview of the potential of AI in healthcare. This research delves into the transformative impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on healthcare delivery. AI enhances diagnostic accuracy through rapid analysis of medical images but faces ethical and data challenges. It empowers personalised medicine, improves patient outcomes, and reduces side effects, especially in resource-constrained settings. Predictive analytics enables early interventions and minimises hospital readmissions, yet algorithmic biases need addressing. AI expedites medical research by extracting insights from vast datasets. Despite its potential, AI integration requires addressing patient acceptance, algorithmic bias, regulatory compliance, and data protection while emphasising ethical considerations for responsible implementation in healthcare.
NON CASEATING NON GRANULOMATOUS TUBERCULOUS LYMPHADENITIS : A CASE REPORT
Authors:   Emeritus Professor, Department of Medicine, MGM Medical College, Aurangabad., Talib S.H. , Bhattu S. R. ,   Associate Professor, Department of Medicine, MGM Medical College, Aurangabad., S.A Amjad ,   Senior Resident, Department of Medicine, MGM Medical College, Aurangabad., P. Sachin ,   Resident in Department of Medicine, MGM Medical College, Aurangabad., B. Pranita ,   Resident in Department of Medicine, MGM Medical College, Aurangabad., I. Abdulla ,   Resident in Department of Medicine, MGM Medical College, Aurangabad.
Published: October 2023

33 year old male patient, initially diagnosed as Kikuchis disease as patient had cervical adenopathy, a year history of febrile illness and significant weight loss (7kgs in 5 months). The relevant investigations pertaining to Tuberculosis including BAL for AFB and CBNAAT, Mantoux test, Lymph node biopsy for evidence of caseating granulomas were all negative in the case. In the case, Joint family history was strong for tuberculosis where in 3 persons in recent months had suffered from pulmonary tuberculosis. subsidence of febrile illness, recedance of LN and gain of weight with antituberculous therapy in the case reaffirms the diagnosis of tuberculosis.
HOW CAN PAKISTAN RECOVER FROM ITS ECONOMIC CRISIS
Authors:   Mayo College, Ajmer., Agarwal Vinayak
Published: October 2023

This research paper throws light on the economic crisis and the period of depression currently going on in Pakistan. How did Pakistan go from being one of the best performers in the Asian Economy to becoming the worst economy in the world? How did Pakistan accumulate a total debt of PKR 55 trillion from loans and where were the areas where the Pakistani Government made mistakes? The paper also focuses on some of the aspects other than the economic front like the political instability, climate issues and external conflicts which led Pakistan to this period of depression. Also, the paper tries to suggest some key solutions which can be taken to revive the economy so that it can grow once again.