bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Course of brain damage following malignant hypertension
Authors: Liegey Jean Sebastien , cremer antoine , Lucas Ludovic , Gosse Philippe , Debeugny Stephane , Rubin Sebastien , Doublet julien , Sibon Igor , BOULESTREAU ROMAIN
Published: June 2024

Background Malignant hypertension (MHT) crisis is characterized by acute and diffuse microvascular damages, and the brain is a primary target organ. While a recent MRI study has revealed extensive and frequent cerebral injuries during the acute phase of MHT crisis, there is a scarcity of follow-up data. This study aims to address this gap by investigating the evolution of brain MRI markers following the management of the acute phase of malignant hypertension.Methods In this retrospective analysis, we examined brain MRI data from patients admitted for acute MHT between 2008 and 2022 at Bordeaux University Hospital. Eligible patients had at least one follow-up brain MRI available. A skilled operator conducted a comprehensive analysis of each brain MRI, searching for posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome (PRES), acute stroke or cerebral hemorrhage and microangiopathy markers, blinded for clinical and demographical data.Results Among 149 patients enrolled, 104 had a brain MRI at inclusion, 47 individuals had at least one follow-up brain MRI and were included in the analysis. 72.3% were male, mean age was 48.2 ± 10.8 years and 46.8% presented blood pressure control at the time of the follow-up brain MRI. Median interval between initial and follow-up brain MRI was 228 (84–726) days. Five (10.6%) new recent strokes, 2 (4.3%) cerebral hemorrhage and 0 PRES were recorded during follow-up. On the follow-up brain MRI, more patients presented chronic lacunar infarct and/or microbleeds, in higher numbers. On the contrary, overall Fazekas score was stable in 31 patients (66.0%), improved in 15 patients (31.9%) and worsened in 1 patients (2.1%). Comparison of subgroups dichotomized according to blood pressure control or follow up duration showed no difference in brain MRI markers.Conclusion This study offers valuable insights into the risk of new cerebrovascular events and the evolution of brain MRI markers after managing the acute phase of malignant hypertension. Our findings emphasize the dynamic nature of cerebral microvascular burden and the potential for regression of white matter hyperintensities. A better understanding of these phenomena might contribute to improved diagnosis, tailored treatment, and proactive patient care in the context of malignant hypertension.
Deciphering the genetic battle: How Argentine Creole cattle challenge Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus through their genome
Authors: Masagué María Florencia Ortega , Bonamy Martín , Cutullé Christian , Giovambattista Guillermo
Published: June 2024

The common cattle tick Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus causes severe limitations to livestock production. Bovine genetics could be a decisive component for the success or failure of control programs for ticks and diseases transmitted. The objective of this work was to detect chromosomal regions associated with host resistance to R. (B.) microplus through an associative mapping study using medium and high density microarrays in a population of Argentine Creole cattle. The phenotypic record of the number of ticks that completed their development on the host, after artificial infestations, was obtained in 231 animals during 2015 to 2020. Genomic DNA was extracted for genotyping from 192 animals using Affymetrix high (Axiom™ Bos 1) and medium density (ArBos1) microarrays. In an exploratory study, chromosomal regions containing putative quantitative trait loci (QTLs) were recognized on chromosomes 27, 11, 10, 9, 16, 13, 3, 19, 8 and 18, associated with the variation of R. (B.) microplus load. Gene ontology based on genes located on these regions revealed an enrichment of terms and pathways for the immune system, blood coagulation, tissue regeneration, endopeptidase activity and protein phosphorylation. The information obtained in this work constitutes a first report of QTLs for tick count in the Argentine Creole cattle, and establishes the basis for additional analyzes that would contribute to the identification of biomarkers related to resistance to the common bovine tick in Argentina.
Application of Ultrasonic Shear Wave Elastography in Anal Fistula and Construction of Reference Model Values in Perianal Tissue
Authors: Tao Xiaochun , Yin Haoqiang , Hu Meng , Li Jing , Si Jichun , Liang Hongtao , Wang Chen , Cao Yongqing
Published: June 2024

Background
In China, ultrasound equipment is widely used, with shear wave elastography (SWE) being a popular method for assessing muscle stiffness. This study aims to establish a reference model value for perianal tissue using SWE, enhancing diagnostic capabilities for perianal conditions.
Method
Between 1st January, 2022 and 30th April, 2023, 92 patients with single-site simple anal fistula who underwent anal fistulectomy were assessed using ultrasonic SWE. Statistical methods including kernel density function, logistic regression, and ROC curve and AUC analysis were employed to establish reference values of ultrasonic SWE for perianal tissues.
Result
92 patients completed perianal normal tissue and fistula tissue detection, while 91 completed scar tissue detection. Specific critical values were identified for differentiating between perianal normal tissue and fistula tissue, with ranges varying by anatomical position. Specifically, it was 23.09 kPa (1 o'clock, 2 o'clock, 3 o'clock, 9 o'clock, 10 o'clock, and 12 o'clock positions), 38.41 kPa (5 o'clock position), 45.57 kPa (6 o'clock position), 52.99 kPa (7 o'clock position), and 41.56 kPa (11 o'clock position), respectively. The initial critical value for distinguishing scar tissue from fistula tissue was 87.28 kPa. And a range from 52.99 kPa to 87.28 kPa was deemed clinically significant for indicating fistula recurrence or residue.
Conclusion
Establishing a reference model value for perianal ultrasonic SWE enhances the diagnosis and evaluation of anal fistulae and contributes to understanding perianal tissue physiology and pathology.
Enhancing Fraud Detection: Leveraging Amazon SageMaker and Machine Learning Algorithms
Authors: Rajashekaran Karthik , Gupta Gaurav Kumar , Jain Rahul
Published: June 2024

Fraud detection in the financial transactions is critical challenge faced by the organizations worldwide. With advent of machine learning techniques, there has been surge in research aimed for developing robust as well as efficient fraud detection systems. This paper presents novel approach to fraud detection by using Amazon SageMaker, cloud based machine learning platform. The proposed methodology utilizes auto encoder based anomaly detection techniques in order to identify fraudulent activities in the credit card transactions. We utilize dataset comprising transactions by the European cardholders, featuring highly imbalanced class distribution with small fraction of the fraudulent instances. Through extensive experimentation along with evaluation, we demonstrate effectiveness of autoencoder model in accurately detecting the fraudulent transactions while minimizing the false positives. In addition to this, we analyzed performance of model in terms of key metrics like precision, recall, and F1-score. Our results showcased potential of Amazon SageMaker as versatile platform for developing along with deploying machine learning solutions for the fraud detection. The findings of this study contributed towards advancing field of the fraud detection along with providing valuable insights for organizations seeking towards enhancement in their security measures in terms of financial transactions.
Novel Oral Adjuvant to Enhance Cytotoxic Memory-Like NK Cell Responses in an HIV Vaccine Platform
Authors: Liyanage Namal , Alles Mario , Gunasena Manuja , Isckarus Christina , De Silva Ilmini , Board Sarah , Mulhern Will , Collins Patrick , Demberg Thorsten Demberg Thorsten
Published: June 2024

Antibody-dependent cell-mediated cytotoxicity, mediated by natural killer (NK) cells and antibodies, emerged as a secondary correlate of protection in the RV144 HIV vaccine clinical trial, the only vaccine thus far demonstrating some efficacy in human. Therefore, leveraging NK cells with enhanced cytotoxic effector responses may bolster vaccine induced protection against HIV. Here, we investigated the effect of orally administering indole-3-carbinol (I3C), an aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR) agonist, as an adjuvant to an RV144-like vaccine platform in a mouse model. We demonstrate the expansion of KLRG1-expressing NK cells induced by the vaccine together with I3C. This NK cell subset exhibited enhanced vaccine antigen-specific cytotoxic memory-like features. Our study underscores the potential of incorporating I3C as an oral adjuvant to HIV vaccine platforms to enhance antigen-specific (memory-like) cytotoxicity of NK cells against HIV-infected cells. This approach may contribute to enhancing the protective efficacy of HIV preventive vaccines against HIV acquisition.
Quantitative assessment of the governing factors of the long-term dynamics of geographically isolated wetlands: A case study within the Nenjiang River Basin, Northeast China
Authors: Ma Qiusheng , Wu Yanfeng , Zhang Guangxin , Rousseau Alain N. , Zhang Wenguang
Published: June 2024

Geographically isolated wetlands (GIWs) provide a portfolio of ecosystem services and contribute largely to landscape functions. Several studies have found that increasing pressure induced by climate change and anthropogenic activities on wetlands ecosystems have been significant around the world. Yet few studies have quantified the impact of natural changes and anthropogenic activities on GIWs. This paper introduces the assessment of the spatiotemporal dynamics of GIWs in the downstream portion of the Nenjiang River Basin, Northeast China. The contribution of anthropogenic activities and natural change were quantitatively evaluated for different periods over the past 38 years (1978–2015). Using a five-stage wetland dataset and four-stage land use datasets, we found that 86% of the GIWs in the study area had disappeared and mainly been replaced by unused land (28.39%) and farmland (54.90%). Anthropogenic activities were deemed responsible for this remarkable loss of wetlands from 1978 to 2008, while in recent years naturally-induced changes contributed more to the decrease of GIWs. Given the current warming and drying trends in the regional climate, efforts should be made to conserve and restore GIWs in order to foster wetland services for a multitude of beneficiaries.
The Healthcare Burden of Isolated Aortic Valve Insufficiency (AI): Analysis of a Large Health Insurance Database
Authors: Sultan Ibrahim , Ryan Michael , Gunnarsson Candace , Heidrich Natalie , Vallabhajosyula Prashanth
Published: June 2024

Objective
To analyze and compare the differences in mortality, healthcare utilization, and costs between patients with symptomatic and asymptomatic isolated aortic insufficiency (AI).
Methods
We utilized Optum® United Health Care database for US patients who had an AI claim between 2017 and 2022, with 12 months of continuous enrollment (baseline period) prior to diagnosis. Exclusion criteria were AVR during the baseline period or a diagnosis of aortic stenosis. Patients were split into two cohorts: those with symptoms (SAI) and those without (AAI). SAI patients had ≥ 2 visits for heart failure, angina, dyspnea, or syncope at baseline. Outcomes of interest were all-cause mortality, time to home health, time to SNF, annualized healthcare utilization, and annualized costs. We used the Cox proportional model to estimate mortality and general linear models to estimate healthcare utilization and costs. Outcomes were modeled separately.
Results
Of 249,660 patients, 58.23% were symptomatic; they were generally older and sicker than the AAI cohort, and less than 1% received AVR. Almost half of AAI patients were estimated to develop symptoms within 5 years post-diagnosis. SAI outcomes were consistently higher across all measured outcomes.
Conclusions
SAI patients have higher mortality, healthcare utilization, and costs than AAI. However, AI can progress quickly from asymptomatic to symptomatic. Early detection and timely interventions to slow the progression or address it surgically should be emphasized to limit the impact of AI.
The 18S rRNA Methyltransferase DIMT-1 Regulates Lifespan in the Germline Later in Life
Authors: Greer Eric , Rothi M. Hafiz , Alhaddad Joseph , Sarkar Gautam , Mitchell Wayne , Ying Kejun , Pohl Nancy , Sotomayor Roberto , Natale Julia , Dellacono Scarlett , Gladyshev Vadim
Published: June 2024

Ribosome heterogeneity has emerged as an important regulatory control feature for determining which proteins are synthesized, however, the influence of age on ribosome heterogeneity is not fully understood. Whether mRNA transcripts are selectively translated in young versus old cells and whether dysregulation of this process drives organismal aging is unknown. Here we examined the role of ribosomal RNA (rRNA) methylation in maintaining appropriate translation as organisms age. In a directed RNAi screen, we identified the 18S rRNA N6’-dimethyl adenosine (m6,2A) methyltransferase, dimt-1, as a regulator of C. elegans lifespan and stress resistance. Lifespan extension induced by dimt-1 deficiency required a functional germline and was dependent on the known regulator of protein translation, the Rag GTPase, raga-1, which links amino acid sensing to the mechanistic target of rapamycin complex (mTORC)1. Using an auxin-inducible degron tagged version of dimt-1, we demonstrate that DIMT-1 functions in the germline after mid-life to regulate lifespan. We further found that knock-down of dimt-1 leads to selective translation of transcripts important for stress resistance and lifespan regulation in the C. elegans germline in mid-life including the cytochrome P450 daf-9, which synthesizes a steroid that signals from the germline to the soma to regulate lifespan. We found that dimt-1 induced lifespan extension was dependent on the daf-9 signaling pathway. This finding reveals a new layer of proteome dysfunction, beyond protein synthesis and degradation, as an important regulator of aging. Our findings highlight a new role for ribosome heterogeneity, and specific rRNA modifications, in maintaining appropriate translation later in life to promote healthy aging.
Case Report Primary lymphoma of mucosa associated lymphoid tissue (MALT lymphoma) in the urinary bladder mimicking recurrent urinary tract infection: a case report and literature review
Authors: Liang Po-Sung , Shih Hung-Jen , Huang Sheng-Hsien , Chen Yi-Zhong
Published: June 2024

We report the case of a 79-year-old woman with primary lymphoma of the mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue (MALT) in the urinary bladder. The patient with urinary frequency, urgency and suprapubic pain had several emergency room visits due to recurrent urinary tract infection. Both sonogram and cystoscopy identified bladder tumors near the bladder neck. An abdominal contrast-enhanced computed tomography scan revealed a polypoid lesion on the inferior bladder wall without enlarged lymph nodes. Transurethral resection of the bladder tumor was conducted. The pathology report confirmed extranodal marginal zone MALT lymphoma. The clinical stage was IEA. Follow-up imaging reported residual bladder tumors, prompting adjuvant radiotherapy. Primary lymphoma is an uncommon pathological subtype. Its clinical and radiological differentiation from urothelial carcinoma (UC) can be challenging, but treatment strategies differ significantly. A definitive diagnosis relies on histopathology and immunohistochemistry. Typically, bladder lymphoma has a favorable prognosis, but further research is required to identify the optimal treatment.
Modeling and Mitigation Measures for Flood Inundation During the Mocha Cyclone
Authors: Singh Vikram Pratap , Sridh B. , Kuiry S.N.
Published: June 2024

Coastal inundation resulting from unusual sea level rise triggered by extreme weather events such as tropical cyclones or intense storms bears significant implications for coastal populations, infrastructure, and socio-economic activities. The conditions are further exacerbated when a cyclone brings heavy rainfall over the land area. To manage such disasters and foster resilient coastal communities, it's crucial to conduct comprehensive analyses of storm surges and resulting inland inundations. This study examines the combined effects of storm surge and inland flooding during a cyclone and proposes mitigation measures. Cyclone Mocha made landfall on the Myanmar coast bordering the Bay of Bengal (BoB) in 2023, resulting in significant storm surge and widespread inland flooding. This potentially impacted around 670,000 ha of land of which 327,000 ha is cropland. A detailed analysis of satellite imageries of this event revealed inundation resulting from storm surges extending over 70 km inland, a dimension often overlooked in previous research. Evaluating such events during a cyclone requires a modeling framework capable of simulating surge propagation in both ocean and inland areas. The Integrated River and Ocean Modelling System (IROMS) model is utilized for this purpose. The model outputs are validated using buoy water levels and satellite imageries of inundation extent. The results highlight the substantial risk of extensive coastal and inland flooding, evident from surge heights reaching 3.5 meters near Sittwe Port. The surge propagation patterns further illustrate the risk when water breaches onto floodplains. In addition, potential worst-case scenarios are evaluated, and mitigation measures are proposed. This study underscores the significance of proactive strategies in mitigating vulnerability and bolstering resilience in flood-prone regions of Myanmar.
Defect-assisted reversible phase transition in
mono- and few-layer ReS2
Authors: Shegai Timur , Zograf George , Yankovich Andrew , Kucukoz Betul , Agrawal Abhay , Polyakov Alexander , Ciers Joachim , Eriksson Fredrik , Haglund Åsa , Erhart Paul , Antosiewicz Tomasz , Olsson Eva
Published: June 2024

Transition metal dichalcogenide (TMD) materials have attracted substantial
interest due to their remarkable excitonic, optical, electrical, and mechanical
properties, which are highly dependent on their crystal structure. Controlling the
crystal structure of these materials is essential for fine-tuning their performance,
e.g., linear and nonlinear optical, as well as charge transport properties. While
various phase-switching TMD materials, like molybdenum telluride (MoTe2),
are available, their transitions are often irreversible. Here, we investigate the
mechanism of a light-induced reversible phase transition in mono- and bilayer
flakes of rhenium disulfide (ReS2). Our observations, based on scanning transmission
electron microscopy, nonlinear spectroscopy, and density functional theory
calculations, reveal a transition from the ground T′′ (double distorted T) to
the metastable H′ (distorted H) phase under femtosecond laser irradiation or
influence of highly-energetic electrons. We show that the formation of sulfur
vacancies facilitates this phenomenon. Our findings pave the way towards actively
manipulating the crystal structure of ReS2 and possibly its heterostructures.
Construction and application of copper ion and amino acid probe based on functionalized metal–organic framework probe
Authors: Liu Xinyi , Hong Dilong , Zhang Qian , Jiang Yuliang
Published: June 2024

The rapid development of fluorescence probe technology has promoted in-depth research in fields such as environment and life medicine. Traditional single channel fluorescent probes can achieve highly sensitive detection of targets, but they appear powerless in complex environments. In addition, in today's deteriorating resource environment, implementing multi-target detection with one probe can effectively save preparation resources, which is in line with the development direction of fluorescent probes. To achieve this goal, designing and preparing multi-site probes is undoubtedly the first choice, but its complex preparation process is daunting. Herein, a novel functional Metal Organic Framework (MOF) was obtained through post modification used UiO-66 was selected as basic skeleton. The novel MOF showed ultra sensitive detection effect on copper ions through coordination. Further, the MOF-Cu2+ can be used to detect the three types of amino acids (cysteine, homocysteine, glutathione) based on the special response between copper and sulfur. Finally, the detection application of probes for Cu2+ in the environment and amino acids in biological systems were researched respectively and achieved good results.
Characteristics in patients with very early therapeutic response of condoliase chemonucleolysis for lumbar disc herniation
Authors: Kamatani Takashi , Kitaguchi Kazuma , Kashii Masafumi
Published: June 2024

Introduction:
Treatment of lumbar disc herniation (LDH) using condoliase chemonucleolysis (CC) requires more time than surgery to demonstrate therapeutic effects. This study aimed to identify patients who show significant improvement in leg pain very early after CC and to determine pretreatment factors that can predict a very early therapeutic response.
Methods
The study included 52 patients who underwent CC for treatment-resistant LDH. Scores for low back and leg pain measured by a numerical rating scale were assessed at four time points (1 day, 1 week, 1 month, and 3 months after CC). Patients who reported subjective pain relief the day after treatment and further exhibited an improved straight leg raising (SLR) angle compared to pretreatment were classified as “very early responders (VER).”
Results
Of the 52 patients, 39 (75%) were VER, and 13 (25%) were non-VER. The VER showed earlier improvement in leg pain. The VER had a significantly higher proportion of positive SLR test patients (p = 0.01) and a significantly smaller pretreatment SLR angle compared to the non-VER (VER vs. non-VER: 40.6 ± 19.0 vs. 63.1 ± 16.9, p < 0.001). There were no significant differences in the level, type, and size of LDH and the disc regression rate between the two groups.
Conclusions
Patients with a smaller pretreatment SLR angle are more likely to experience very early or early symptomatic relief, with a significant and sustained reduction in leg pain up to 3 months after CC treatment.
Electricity Price Forecasting Combined with Wavelet Packet Decomposition and a Hybrid Deep Neural Network in Spot Market
Authors: Jia Heping , Guo Yuchen , Zhang Xiaobin , Yang Zhenglin , Zheng Yaxian , Zeng Dan , Liu Dunnan
Published: June 2024

Accurate electricity spot price forecasting is significant for market players to make decisions on bidding strategies. However, electricity spot prices are extremely volatile to forecast due to the influences of various factures. This paper develops an electricity price forecasting framework in spot market combined with wavelet packet decomposition (WPD) algorithm and a hybrid deep neural network. The WPD algorithm has higher decomposition accuracy and it can identify fluctuating trends and occasional noise in the data. The hybrid deep neural network is embedded with temporal convolutional neural (TCN) network, long and short-term memory (LSTM) neural network. The new hybrid framework is designed for improving the ability of feature extraction via TCN model and enhancing the efficiency of price forecasting. Case studies on the electricity market in UK confirm that the proposed model outperforms alternatives on the forecasting accuracy. Comparing to mean errors of other techniques, the average mean absolute error (MAE), root mean square error (RMSE) and mean absolute percentage error (MAPE) of the proposed method are reduced by 27.3%, 66.9% and 22.8% respectively. Meanwhile, case studies on different denoising methods and datasets demonstrate that the proposed prediction model can better analyze the fluctuations in time series data and has certain generalization ability and robustness.
A Systematic Review on COVID-19 pandemic-related Gender-based Violence among Urban Poor in Low- and Middle-income Countries
Authors: Sahoo Krushna Chandra , Negi Sapna , Mahapatra Pranab , Samantaray Kajal , Bhattacharya Debdutta , Barrio Mariam Otmani , Pati Sanghamitra
Published: June 2024

Purpose
The COVID-19 pandemic imposed a colossal cost on governments worldwide, compelling them to adopt staying at home as a viable option for varying periods. These strategies have substantially reduced disease transmission, but have exacerbated existing gender inequality, resulting in a significant increase in gender-based violence (GBV).
Method
We conducted a search of eleven databases that were published between November 2019 and February 2022. Regardless of gender, studies that examined the prevalence of GBV among the urban poor during COVID-19 were included. The review did not consider secondary studies or studies published outside low-and middle-income countries (LMICs). Included in the study were refugees, domestic workers, migrant labourers, slum dwellers, sex workers, and transgender individuals. The data were synthesised using thematic analysis.
Results
After identifying and screening a total of 6,490 publications at various stages, 20 studies were included. According to the studies, the prevalence of GBV has risen due to the pandemic. Financial hardship, alcoholism, social discrimination, school closures, lack of health facilities, limited transport, inadequate toilet facilities, and a misperception of COVID-19 infection contributed significantly to GBV during the pandemic. In addition, the difficulty of gaining access to law enforcement and legal institutions exacerbated instances of GBV. This persistent GBV has increased the likelihood of sexually transmitted diseases, unwanted pregnancies, and vulnerability among people living with mental health in urban slums.
Conclusion
It is essential to acknowledge the scope of GBV, raise awareness of the issue, reform government policies at all levels, and improve victims' access to resources and support networks during emergencies.
Effect of natural aging on biochar physicochemical property and mobility of Cd (II)
Authors: Liu Cenwei , Ye Jing , Lin Yi , Chen Longjun , Wu Xiaomei , Price G. W. , Wang Yixiang
Published: June 2024

This project utilized both field experiment and laboratory analysis to address the lack of understanding of the alterations in properties and functions of biochar, as well as the impact of heavy metal passivation in soil over long-term natural field aging. The study aimed to examine the changes in the physical and chemical characteristics of biochar over an extended period of natural aging. Additionally, it aimed to analyze the impact and mechanism of biochar on the reduction of the harmful effects of the heavy metal cadmium (Cd) during the aging process. Both original and aged biochar fitted to the pseudo-second-order kinetics model and the Langmuir model. The aging process increased the adsorption of Cd by biochar and decreased the leaching of Cd2+. This provided a scientific basis for evaluating biochar's environmental behavior and its potential for use in the remediation of soil contaminated with heavy metals.
Analysis of the efficacy and factors affecting the prognosis of intracranial dissecting aneurysm treated with multi-stent overlap technique
Authors: xiaolin li , huojun Hu
Published: June 2024

Objective: The study aims to identify characteristics that impact the postoperative prognosis and recurrence of intracranial dissecting aneurysms (IDA) patients treated using multi-stent overlapping techniques.
Methods:Clinical data from 69 IDA patients treated with multistate-assisted spring coil embolization at the Hospital between January 2017 and October 2023 were retrospectively reviewed, including clinical and imaging data gathered at admission and discharge. Patients were separated into two groups based on their prognosis at discharge: "good prognosis" and "wrong prognosis." They were split into two groups: recurrence and no-recurrence, based on whether the patients had recurrence during surgical follow-up. The patient's clinical information and aneurysm data were compared between the two groups to better understand the efficacy of multi-stenting for IDA and to investigate the factors that influence the good or negative prognosis of multi-stenting for IDA and recurrence.
Results: Ten patients with multiple stents died, while 59 had a good prognosis. Hunt classification (c2=25.503a, P=<0.01), hospitalization days (t=-3.873, P<0.01), operation time (t=-1.970, P=0.049), and aneurysm height (t=-1.969, P=0.049) were all significant. Sixty-two patients were discharged with four postoperative recurrences and 58 without recurrences in patients treated with multiple stents, with significant differences in the largest diameter (t=-2.235, P=0.025), basal length (t=-2.149, P=0.032), and staging (c2=10.955a, P=0.001). The postoperative recurrence rate was 5.8%, but 85.8% reported satisfactory neurologic function (mRS < 2). The case fatality rate was 10.1%.
Conclusion: Hunt-Hess grading on admission, hospitalization days, and operation time affect the prognosis of IDA. Aneurysm size, longest diameter, basal length, and location at the base of the pica affect recurrence. Involvement of the pica base by the dissecting aneurysm is an independent risk factor for recurrence.
Impairment of perioperative activities of daily living is associated with poor prognosis following pancreatectomy for pancreatic cancer
Authors: Ofuchi Takashi , Mima Kosuke , Hayashi Hiromitsu , Adachi Yuki , Kanemitsu Kosuke , Tajiri Takuya , Itoyama Rumi , Nakagawa Shigeki , Okabe Hirohisa , Baba Hideo
Published: June 2024

Purpose
The number of patients with pancreatic cancer coping with impaired activities of daily living (ADLs) is continually increasing. This study aimed to examine the association between perioperative Barthel Index (BI) scores, a validated measure of ADLs, and survival outcomes after pancreatectomy for pancreatic cancer.
Methods
We analyzed the data of 201 patients who underwent pancreatectomy for pancreatic cancer between 2010 and 2020. Preoperative and postoperative ADLs were assessed using the BI (range: 0–100; higher scores indicated greater independence). A preoperative or postoperative BI score ≤ 85 was defined as an impairment of perioperative ADLs. Cox proportional hazards regression was used to calculate the hazard ratios (HRs) after adjusting for potential confounders.
Results
Among the 201 patients, 14 (7.0%) had a preoperative BI score ≤ 85 and 50 (25%) had a postoperative BI score ≤ 85. Impairment of perioperative ADLs was independently associated with shorter overall survival (multivariable HR: 1.91, 95% confidence interval [95%CI]: 1.04–3.49, P = 0.036), cancer-specific survival (multivariable HR: 1.97, 95%CI: 1.15–3.38, P = 0.013), and recurrence-free survival (multivariable HR: 1.94, 95%CI: 1.08–3.50, P = 0.021).
Conclusion
Impairment of perioperative ADLs is associated with poor prognosis following pancreatectomy for pancreatic cancer. The maintenance and improvement of perioperative ADLs could play an important role in providing favorable long-term outcomes in patients with pancreatic cancer.
Early and late neonatal mortality in term newborns: Survival differences according to public and private hospitals in Brazil
Authors: Lay Alejandra Andrea Roman , Junqueira Maria Elizangela Ramos , Queiroz Marcel Reis , Diniz Carmen Simone Grilo
Published: June 2024

Background: A better understanding of neonatal mortality risk factors in Brazil would guide improvements in these indicators. Thus, this study seeks to identify risk factors associated with early and late neonatal mortality stratified by public and private hospitals.
Methods: This is a cohort study of newborns between January 1, 2012 and December 31, 2017. Mortality data were obtained through linkage between two Brazilian national government databases from São Paulo city. Cox regression models were used to estimate the associations between maternal and newborn characteristics on ENM (0-6 days) and LNM (7-27 days).
Results: In the public sector, mother's age (≥35), gestational age (<38 and ≥41 weeks), inadequate and intermediate Kotelchuk index, cesarean section and low birth weight (LBW) were risk factors for ENM. In the private sector, mother's skin color (black), inadequate Kotelchuk index, parity (2 or more) and LBW were risk factors for ENM, as for the mother's education (university), gestational age of 39 weeks and female sex of the newborn were protective factors for ENM. Furthermore, in the public sector, mother's age (≤19), gestational age (< 38 weeks), inadequate and intermediate Kotelchuk index, cesarean section and LBW were risk factors for LMN. While in the private sector gestational age of ≤ 37 weeks and LBW were risk factors for LNM, on the other hand, mother's education (university) and female sex remain protective factors for LNM.
Conclusions: In Brazil, there are differences in mother's characteristics and newborn between women cared for in the public and private sectors that could influence neonatal mortality.
Integration of mRNA-miRNA revealed the possible role of PyCYCD3 may increasing branches through bud-notching in pear (Pyrus bretschneideri Rehd)
Authors: An Ze-Shan , Zuo Cun-Wu , Mao Juan , Ma Zong-Huan , Li Wen-Fang , Chen Bai-Hong
Published: June 2024

Background: The initiation of branching from the main stem of a pear tree is hindered in the absence of external stimuli, resulting in poor quality branching. Endogenous hormones and associated genes are pivotal in regulating the branching process in pear trees, while the patterns of branching in fruit trees and the underlying chemical mechanisms remain enigmatic.
Methods: The impact of notching on 'Huang guan' pear buds was investigated through the assessment of germination rate, branching rate, and hormone levels. Transcriptome sequencing was employed to examine mRNA and miRNA expression in notched and control buds, leading to the identification of a mRNA-miRNA network, which was subsequently validated using qRT-PCR. Furthermore, the CYCD3 gene was genetically manipulated and analyzed in notched and control buds of pears.
Results: Based on KEGG analysis, a notable proportion of the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) are linked to the biosynthesis pathway of plant compounds involved in signal transduction within the organism. Within this subset of DEGs, PyCYCD3was identified as an up-regulated gene, potentially indicating its involvement in the regulation of branching processes. Furthermore, a comprehensive investigation identified fifteen miRNAs that target three genes associated with plant hormones. The differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were validated through quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). PyCYCD3was chosen for transformation into wild Arabidopsis plants, resulting in the generation of transgenic Arabidopsis plants. Subsequent analysis of branching patterns, plant hormone levels, and relative gene expression suggests that PyCYCD3may play a significant role in promoting lateral branches in pear trees through bud-notching.
Conclusions: This study suggests that the transport of brassinosteroids from lateral branches to the stem in pear trees may be crucial for the development of lateral buds. PyCYCD3 likely plays a significant regulatory role in both bud germination and branch growth.
Sirtuin 1 regulates the phenotype and functions of dendritic cells through Ido1 pathway in obesity.
Authors: Camara Niels Olsen Saraiva , De Lima Jean , Leite Jefferson , Basso Paulo José , Ghirotto Bruno , Martins Eloisa , Menezes-Silva Luisa , Hiyane Meire , Goes Carolina Purcell , Coutinho Luiz Lehmann , Andrade-Oliveira Vinicius
Published: June 2024

Sirtuin 1 (SIRT1) is a class III histone deacetylase (HDAC3) that plays a crucial role in regulating the activation and differentiation of dendritic cells (DCs) as well as controlling the polarization and activation of T cells. Obesity, a chronic inflammatory condition, is characterized by the activation of immune cells in various tissues. We hypothesized that SIRT1 might influence the phenotype and functions of DCs through the Ido1 pathway, ultimately leading to the polarization towards proinflammatory T cells in obesity. In our study, we observed that SIRT1 activity was reduced in bone marrow-derived DCs (BMDCs) from obese animals. These BMDCs exhibited diminished oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) and increased extracellular acidification rates (ECAR), along with enhanced expression of class II MHC, CD86, and CD40, and elevated secretion of IL-12p40, while the production of TGF-β was reduced. The kynurenine pathway activity was decreased in BMDCs from obese animals, particularly under SIRT1 inhibition. SIRT1 positively regulated the expression of Ido1 in DCs in a PPARγ-dependent manner. To support these findings, ATAC-seq analysis revealed that BMDCs from obese mice had differentially regulated open chromatin regions compared to those from lean mice, with reduced chromatin accessibility at the Sirt1 genomic locus in BMDCs from obese WT mice. Gene Ontology (GO) enrichment analysis indicated that BMDCs from obese animals had disrupted metabolic pathways, including those related to GTPase activity and insulin response. Differential expression analysis showed reduced levels of Pparg and Sirt1 in BMDCs from obese mice. This study highlights that SIRT1 controls the metabolism and functions of DCs through modulation of the kynurenine pathway and Ido1, with significant implications for obesity-related inflammation.
Mechanical site preparation impacts on soil structural quality in a forest plantation depend on soil moisture and excavator size
Authors: Collet Catherine , Agro Chloé , Akroume Emila , Puyal Malaurie , Vast Florian
Published: June 2024

Mechanical site preparation (MSP) is widely performed around the globe to enhance the success of forest plantations. However, MSP can cause severe soil disturbance whose magnitude depends on various factors such as soil characteristics, soil moisture conditions and the type of machinery. We analyzed the combined effects of machine size and soil water content on the soil structural quality following MSP. We carried out MSP at two dates with different soil moisture contents, using two excavators that differed in weight (2.7 T and 9 T) and engine power, in two forest stands that differed in their soil characteristics but that showed compacted soils. We used a profile wall method to describe the soil structural quality after MSP was performed. All instances of MSP resulted in an increase in the volume of soil favorable to root growth, i.e., soil with a friable structure compared to the unprepared control. No evidence of soil degradation was found in comparison to the control. The larger excavator prepared the soil to a greater depth due to its larger MSP tool and its higher engine capacity. MSP performed during the dry period resulted in a greater volume of soil favorable to root growth than MSP performed during the wet period. Our results indicate that MSP provides better results when conducted during the dry period. Therefore, it is strongly recommended that forest operators carefully consider the timing of MSP operations and avoid executing them under moist soil conditions.
Calcite U-Pb geochronology of Huayuan carbonate-hosted Zn-Pb mineralization in Central Yangtze Craton, South China
Authors: Li Bin , Zhang Wen-Dong , Zhao Jian-Xin , Liu Peng , Feng Yue-Xing , Xiao Yang
Published: June 2024

The Yangtze Craton hosts significant Zn-Pb deposits in Neoproterozoic to Carboniferous carbonates (> 60 Mt Pb + Zn metals), accounting for 30% of China's Zn-Pb resources. However, determining the timing of zinc and lead mineralization in these reservoirs is challenging. This study employs LA-ICP-MS U-Pb geochronology on calcites to date Zn-Pb deposits hosted in Lower Cambrian limestone in the Huayuan orefield. Three generations of calcite formation were dated: the first recorded the pre-ore deposition of Lower Cambrian limestone at 517 ± 10 Ma, the second marked a hydrothermal event linked to stratiform sphalerite ore formation at 501.4 ± 8.4 Ma, and the third was associated with discordant breccia-hosted Zn-Pb mineralization at 397.5 ± 9.6 Ma. Our results indicate that Paleozoic carbonate-hosted Pb-Zn mineralization in the Yangtze Craton is linked to (1) the final assembly of Gondwana in the late Cambrian-early Ordovician (520 − 480 Ma); and (2) the intracontinental orogeny response to Jiangnan Uplift (420 − 400 Ma). This study highlights the spatial-temporal relationship between low temperature carbonate-hosted mineralization and orogenic events that are consistent with classic Mississippi Valley-type models worldwide. Furthermore, it demonstrates the potential of in situ U-Pb calcite geochronology to date ore deposits lacking syn-ore minerals suitable for traditional dating methods.
Maximizing Insights from Longitudinal Epigenetic Age Data: Simulations, Applications, and Practical Guidance
Authors: Großbach Anna , Suderman Matthew J. , Hüls Anke , Lussier Alexandre A. , Smith Andrew D.A.C. , Walton Esther , Dunn Erin C. , Simpkin Andrew J.
Published: June 2024

Background
Epigenetic Age (EA) is an age estimate, developed using DNA methylation (DNAm) states of selected CpG sites across the genome. Although EA and chronological age are highly correlated, EA may not increase uniformly with time. Departures, known as epigenetic age acceleration (EAA), are common and have been linked to various traits and future disease risk. Limited by available data, most studies investigating these relationships have been cross-sectional - using a single EA measurement. However, the recent growth in longitudinal DNAm studies has led to analyses of associations with EA over time. These studies differ in (i) their choice of model; (ii) the primary outcome (EA vs. EAA); and (iii) in their use of chronological age or age-independent time variables to account for the temporal dynamic. We evaluated the robustness of each approach using simulations and tested our results in two real-world examples, using biological sex and birthweight as predictors of longitudinal EA.
Results
Our simulations showed most accurate effect sizes in a linear mixed model or generalized estimating equation, using chronological age as the time variable. The use of EA versus EAA as an outcome did not strongly impact estimates. Applying the optimal model in real-world data uncovered an accelerated EA rate in males and an advanced EA that decelerates over time in children with higher birthweight.
Conclusion
Our results can serve as a guide for forthcoming longitudinal EA studies, aiding in methodological decisions that may determine whether an association is accurately estimated, overestimated, or potentially overlooked.
Convolutional Automatic Identification of B-lines and Interstitial Syndrome in Lung Ultrasound Images Using Pre-Trained Neural Networks with Feature Fusion
Authors: Moafa Khalid , Antico Maria , Vukovic Damjan , Edwards Christopher , Canty David , Serra Ximena Cid , Royse Alistair , Royse Colin , Haji Kavi , Dowling Jason , Steffens Marian , Fontanarosa Davide
Published: June 2024

Background Interstitial/Alveolar Syndrome (IS) is a condition detectable on lung ultrasound (LUS) that indicates underlying pulmonary or cardiac diseases associated with significant morbidity and increased mortality rates. The diagnosis of IS using LUS can be challenging and time-consuming, and it requires clinical expertise.
Methods In this study, multiple Convolutional Neural Network (CNN) deep learning (DL) models were trained, acting as binary classifiers, to accurately screen for IS from LUS frames by differentiating between IS-present and healthy cases. The CNN DL models were initially pre-trained using a generic image dataset to learn general visual features (ImageNet), and then fine-tuned on our specific dataset of 108 LUS clips from 54 patients (27 healthy and 27 with IS), with two clips per patient, to perform a binary classification task. Each frame within a clip was assessed to determine the presence of IS features or to confirm a healthy lung status. The dataset was split into training (70%), validation (15%), and testing (15%) sets. Following the process of fine-tuning, we successfully extracted features from pre-trained DL models. These extracted features were utilised to train multiple machine learning (ML) classifiers, hence the trained ML classifiers yielded significantly improved accuracy in IS classification. Advanced visual interpretation techniques, such as heatmaps based on Gradient-weighted Class Activation Mapping (Grad-CAM) and Local Interpretable Model-Agnostic explanations (LIME), were implemented to further analyse the outcomes.
Results The best-trained ML model achieved a test accuracy of 98.2%, with specificity, recall, precision, and F1-score values all above 97.9%. Our study demonstrates, for the first time, the feasibility of using a pre-trained CNN with the feature extraction and fusion technique as a diagnostic tool for IS screening on LUS frames, providing a time-efficient and practical approach to clinical decision-making.
Conclusion This study confirms the practicality of using pre-trained CNN models, with the feature extraction and fusion technique, for screening IS through LUS frames. This represents a noteworthy advancement in improving the efficiency of diagnosis. In the next steps, validation on larger datasets will assess the applicability and robustness of these CNN models in more complex clinical settings.
Application of Metauniverse Model Based on NFT Expansion in the Perspective of Blockchain Green Finance
Authors: Xu Weishuang , Li Daming
Published: June 2024

The progress of computer technology has given the Internet of Things (IoT) a better development space, and also promoted the wide application of blockchain technology under the IoT. NFT (Non-Fungible Token) technology, which is a blockchain derivative, has also generated a vast amount of buzz with the meta-universe. The essence of the metauniverse is a digital twin space based on blockchain. The universe economy cannot operate freely. It needs to blend and interact with the real economy. The value anchor of NFT plays an important role in the metacosmic economy. In order to better play the role of NFT in the metacosmic model of different projects, it is necessary to study the metacosmic model expanded by NFT. Therefore, this paper focused on the green finance of the blockchain. By discussing NFT and the metauniverse, the idea of extending NFT under the green finance of the blockchain to the metauniverse model was put forward. Through empirical analysis, it was found that the method proposed in this paper has a more obvious effect than the traditional method. It promoted the actual asset growth rate of Item 3 by 3.7%, and the digital asset growth rate by 4.7%; At the same time, the rationality of resource allocation of Item 4 was increased by 7.3% and 5.6% respectively, and it also played a significant role in reducing the risk occurrence rate. This meant that the method proposed in this paper has a certain practical effect. It can improve the economic benefits of different project metauniverse models and promote their economic growth, thus bringing new opportunities for different industries. In addition, the research and application of blockchain technology has also enriched the application scope of the IoT, thus promoting its development.