bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Simulating the Arrival of the Southern Substructure in the Galaxy Cluster Abell 1758
Authors: Machado Rubens E. G. , Volert Ricardo C. , Albuquerque Richards P. , Monteiro-Oliveira Rogério , Lima Neto Gastão B.
Published: July 2024

Abell 1758 (z ∼ 0.278) is a galaxy cluster composed of two structures, A1758N and A1758S, separated by ∼2.2 Mpc. The northern cluster is itself a dissociative merging cluster that has already been modeled by dedicated simulations. Recent radio observations revealed the existence of a previously undetected bridge connecting A1758N and A1758S. New simulations are now needed to take into account the presence of A1758S. We wish to evaluate which orbital configuration would be compatible with a bridge between the clusters. Using N-body hydrodynamical simulations that build upon the previous model, we explore different scenarios that could have led to the current observed configuration. Five types of orbital approaches were tested: radial, tangential, vertical, postapocentric, and outgoing. We found that the incoming simulated scenarios are generally consistent with mild enhancements of gas density between the approaching clusters. The mock X-ray images exhibit a detectable bridge in all cases. Compared to measurements of Chandra data, the amplitude of the X-ray excess is overestimated by a factor of ∼2–3 in the best simulations. The scenario of tangential approach proved to be the one that best matches the properties of the profiles of X-ray surface brightness. The scenarios of radial approach of vertical approach are also marginally compatible.
Can We Constrain Warm Dark Matter Masses with Individual Galaxies?
Authors: Lin 林 Shurui 书睿 , Villaescusa-Navarro Francisco , Rose Jonah , Torrey Paul , Farahi Arya , Kollmann Kassidy E. , Garcia Alex M. , Roy Sandip , Vogelsberger Mark , Kallivayalil Nitya , Cai 蔡 Yi-Fu 一夫 , Luo 罗 Wentao 文涛
Published: July 2024

We study the impact of warm dark matter (WDM) mass on the internal properties of individual galaxies using a large suite of 1024 state-of-the-art cosmological hydrodynamic simulations from the DREAMS project. We take individual galaxies’ properties from the simulations, which have different cosmologies, astrophysics, and WDM masses, and train normalizing flows to learn the posterior of the parameters. We find that our models cannot infer the value of the WDM mass, even when the values of the cosmological and astrophysical parameters are given explicitly. This result holds for galaxies with stellar mass larger than 2 × 108
M
⊙
h
−1 at both low and high redshifts. We calculate the mutual information and find no significant dependence between the WDM mass and galaxy properties. On the other hand, our models can infer the value of Ωm with a ∼10% accuracy from the properties of individual galaxies while marginalizing astrophysics and WDM masses.
Panton-Valentine leucocidin gene in methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus isolated from tertiary care hospital in Nepal
Authors: Syangtan Gopiram , Khanal Laxmi K , Bista Shrijana , Chand Arun B , Maharajhan Bijaya L , Dawadi Prabin , Tuladhar Reshma , Rai Shiba K , Joshi Dev R
Published: July 2024

Introduction: Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) expresses the Panton-Valentine leukocidin (PVL) virulence gene, which is associated with community and hospital-acquired severe MRSA infections. The objective of this study was to determine the prevalence and antibiotic susceptibility profile with a focus on the presence of the PVL gene among MRSA isolates in healthcare settings.
Methodology: A total of 1,207 clinical specimens and 304 hospital environment swabs were collected in a tertiary care hospital in Nepal, and investigated following basic microbiological techniques. S. aureus was confirmed with the coagulase test. An antibiotic susceptibility test (AST) was performed by the Kirby-Bauer method and screening for MRSA was carried out by the cefoxitin disc diffusion method guided by the Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI), 2020. DNA was extracted and used in a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) to detect mecA and PVL genes.
Results: Of the 1,511 samples, 45 (2.9%) S. aureus (23 clinical and 22 environmental) were isolated. Among them, 69.6% (16/23) and 27.3% (6/22) were MRSA in clinical and environmental isolates, respectively. Twelve (52.2%) clinical isolates and seven (31.8%) environmental isolates were multidrug resistant. The majority of isolates were susceptible to vancomycin and linezolid. The PVL gene was detected in 18.2% (n = 4/22) of the MRSA isolates, of which three were from clinical sources and one was from an environmental swab.
Conclusions: The prevalence of MRSA, and PVL-producing S. aureus were higher in the hospital setting. Hence, immediate and urgent implementation of infection control and sanitation measures are needed in the hospital.
Japanese spotted fever complicated with pleural effusion in Zhejiang province, China: a case report and literature review
Authors: He Keting , Chen Shangci , Yu Liang , Wei Dongfan , Xu Xiaowei
Published: July 2024

Introduction: Japanese spotted fever (JSF) mainly occurs in Japan; however, it has been increasingly reported in China. JSF is typically characterized by fever, rash, and eschar, in addition to non-specific symptoms. Yet, reports on the pulmonary indicators in JSF are limited. Herein, we report an unusual case of JSF associated with pleural effusion and pneumonia, in which the pathogen was identified via blood next-generation sequencing (NGS).
Case presentation: We report a case of a 33-year-old woman who presented with fever for five days, rash for two days, and myalgia, fatigue, and edema for one day. She had recently been on vacation when an unknown insect bit her. The doctors at the local primary hospital considered a bacterial infection and administered dexamethasone, ceftriaxone, indomethacin, and anti-allergy agents, but the symptoms persisted. A rash without pruritus or pain developed gradually over the entire body and face. We considered rickettsial infection and administered doxycycline and levofloxacin. Metagenomic NGS from blood confirmed the presence of Rickettsia japonica (R. japonica). Abdominal computed tomography revealed bilateral pleural effusion with two atelectasis; patchy shadows with blurred edges, and uniform enhancement in both lower lungs. After several days of treatment, the symptoms and laboratory results improved.
A literature review of the epidemiology of R. japonica and JSF in China, characteristics of JSF, and related pulmonary changes, and technology to diagnose JSF is provided.
Conclusions: JSF has a variety of symptoms and is becoming increasingly popular in China. Clinical doctors need to identify it carefully.
Molecular characteristics of the structure protein VP1 in Coxsackievirus A10 Isolates from China
Authors: Wang Hua , Wang Wenhong , Chen Guoqing , Hu Chuanjie , Chen Shengjie , Mao Lingxiang , Shen Hongxing
Published: July 2024

Introduction: Coxsackievirus A10 (CVA10) is a non-enveloped, positive-sense single-stranded RNA virus classified within the Enterovirus genus in the Picornaviridae family. It is among the pathogens that can cause hand, foot and mouth disease. This study aimed to analyze the temporal and spatial distribution of CVA10 in China to understand its epidemiological characteristics of CVA10.
Methodology: We collected the VP1 sequences of CVA10 from January 1, 2004, to December 31, 2019, from the GenBank database and created the global map using MapChart. We selected 56 known CVA10 genotype sequences. Then, MEGA6.06 was used to construct a phylogenetic tree with the collected gene sequences and the known reference sequences for comparative analysis to assess the distribution of CVA10 genotypes in different countries between 2004 and 2019.
Results: CVA10 has been widely detected or reported globally. In China, the prevalent genotype of CVA10 was mainly genotype B before 2008 and genotype C after 2009. In other countries, the prevalence of genotype D was dominant, followed by genotypes C and F, and the prevalence of CVA10 varied from continent to continent.
Conclusions: Monitoring CVA10 genotypes or evolutionary branches should be strengthened, and the study of epidemic genotype characteristics should be enhanced. This will serve as a basis for further research and development of monovalent CVA10 or polyvalent vaccines designed for effective disease prevention.
Multidrug-Resistant Acinetobacter baumannii mediastinitis
Authors: Dumani Selman , Puca Edmond , Likaj Ermal , Llazo Stavri , Rruci Edlira , Beca Vera , Refatllari Ali , Baboci Arben
Published: July 2024

Introduction: Mediastinitis remains one of the most serious complications of cardiac surgery. The reported incidence is 1–4%, while the related mortality varies from 10–47%.
Case Presentation: A patient with triple vessel disease (TVD) was hospitalized at our clinic for coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery. The preoperative examination results were normal. We performed standard CABG under extracorporeal circulation. The patient had a favorable postoperative course. On the fifth postoperative day, the wound showed seropurulent drainage. The treatment of the patient’s wound continued with open dressing, negative wound pressure device, debridement, minimal muscle plasticity, and total bilateral muscle pectoral flap plasticity. The infecting microorganism was identified as multidrug-resistant Acinetobacter baumani, and systemic antibiotic therapy was initiated. The patient had “per secundum closure” of the wound after all these efforts. The wound healed completely 2 months after discharge, and the patient was in good health.
Conclusions: Mediastinitis is associated with high mortality and high financial and human costs. The occurrence of this high-risk complication can be prevented through constant vigilance at every step from admission to discharge.
A rare association of liver abscess and rhabdomyolysis induced by Klebsiella oxytoca
Authors: Apuzzi Valentina , Sodano Marta , Irace Rita , Amoruso Daniela Caterina , Cozzolino Antonio , Maraolo Alberto Enrico , Bassi Vincenzo
Published: July 2024

Introduction: We report the case of a 76-year-old male who was hospitalized with severe dehydration, pain in the hepatic region, and weakness in the limbs.
Methodology: A contrast-enhanced abdomen CT and a contrast-enhanced ultrasound identified a large liver abscess. The patient underwent percutaneous drainage of the abscess.
Results: The culture examination, analyzed by multiplex polymerase chain reaction test, showed the presence of Klebsiella oxytoca. The laboratory report identified a resistance mechanism involving a plasmid-mediated SHV-1 extended-spectrum-beta-lactamase (ESBL).
Conclusions: K. oxytoca is a Gram-negative bacterium and is potentially associated with a large variety of infections. The association between the liver abscess by K. oxytoca and rhabdomyolysis had not yet been described in the literature.
Neutronic evaluation of VVER fuel assembly with chemical spectral shift regulation
Authors: Ashraf O. , El-Kholy Alaa Hamdy , Elzayat Tarek , Abdalla Ayman M. , Ashry A. H.
Published: July 2024

The performance of the spectral shift control (SSC) method is evaluated and compared to the conventional poison method in the VVER-1000 fuel assembly design. The SSC method can be implemented by gradually adjusting the ratio of heavy water to light water moderator (D2O/H2O) during the fuel cycle. In this study, the efficiency of using the SSC design with or without a thermal absorber (gadolinium) is investigated. We apply the SSC with both 12 burnable absorber rods containing 4.0 wt.% Gd2O3 (Case 1) and without Gd2O3 (Case 2). The neutronic calculations indicate that the discharge burnup is enhanced by 60% and the conversion ratio (CR) is increased by 64.4% at the beginning of the cycle (BOC) compared to the benchmark data. The breeding of Pu239 and Pu241 is extended to 33.7% and 29.5%, respectively, for the SSC design case (2), and better utilization of U-235 and U-238 has been achieved compared to BM.
Developing strategic capabilities for startup – large firm collaborative innovation
Authors: Bertin Clarice
Published: July 2024

Pour optimiser les chances de succès d’un projet d’innovation collaborative startup – grande entreprise, il est essentiel pour ces partenaires de développer les capacités stratégiques associées à ce type de collaboration asymétrique. Cet article propose des facteurs clés facilitant l’innovation collaborative entre startups et grandes entreprises, selon une approche fondée sur les capacités stratégiques dynamiques et un croisement avec les trois piliers du design organisationnel.
Institutionnalisation d’une expérimentation pour l’emploi au prisme de l’analyse processuelle
Authors: Retsin Camille , Petrella Francesca
Published: July 2024

L’objectif de cet article est d’analyser le processus d’institutionnalisation de l’expérimentation « Territoires zéro chômeur de longue durée » sur Jouques (Sud Provence Alpes Côte d’Azur, France). Nous considérons l’expérimentation comme une innovation sociale dans le champ des politiques publiques de l’emploi. L’institutionnalisation des innovations sociales se comprend comme la formalisation progressive des pratiques sociales afin de pérenniser l’action menée par les acteurs sur un territoire. En mobilisant les données empiriques collectées dans le cadre d’un travail de thèse centré sur l’expérimentation, nous proposons d’utiliser l’analyse processuelle afin de présenter nos résultats. Cette dernière nous permet de faire émerger les séquences à partir de l’identification des ingrédients, des moteurs et des bifurcations ayant eu lieu sur le territoire.
Se marier « hors saison » ?
Authors: Meslay Gaëlle
Published: July 2024

Au cours du xx e  siècle, le rituel matrimonial a profondément évolué, affectant sa saisonnalité. Dans un contexte d’affaiblissement institutionnel, le mariage est devenu, pour celles et ceux qui le choisissent, un rituel de personnalisation du couple, reposant sur de forts enjeux esthétiques. Mais depuis que les couples de même sexe ont obtenu la possibilité de se marier, en 2013, leurs choix suivent-ils la saisonnalité des mariages de couples de sexe différent ? Cet article explore l’atypisme dans leurs dates de mariage, montrant que celui-ci est en partie explicable par la place qu’occupent les usages juridiques du mariage pour ces couples. Il souligne également d’importantes différences genrées sur ce point, l’atypisme des couples de femmes renvoyant davantage à des choix saisonniers, tandis que celui des hommes concerne plus spécifiquement le jour de la semaine. Cela peut s’expliquer par les motivations juridiques des femmes, davantage centrées sur l’accès à l’adoption et à l’établissement de la filiation, donnant lieu à une répartition des cérémonies au fil de l’année en fonction de l’aboutissement de leurs projets parentaux.
La recherche-action collaborative dans le milieu de la petite enfance : une multiplicité de médiums entre science, design et terrain
Authors: Voillot Marion , Vettier Lou , Jacquey Lisa
Published: July 2024

Entre soin et éducation, le milieu de la petite enfance (0-6 ans) est un domaine complexe au sein duquel cohabitent les tout-petits et leurs donneur·ses de soin (caregivers) dans différents environnements allant du foyer familial aux lieux d’éveil et d’éducation. Face aux nombreuses problématiques auxquelles le milieu de la petite enfance doit faire face ces dernières années, l’enjeu de (re)donner le pouvoir d’agir aux professionnel·les de terrain est essentiel. Pour cela, il est nécessaire de créer des ponts entre la recherche scientifique et les problématiques de terrain. Pour parvenir à cet objectif, l’association Premiers Cris facilite la réalisation de projets de recherche-action collaborative (RAC) associant professionnel·les de terrain, scientifiques et designers, dans une démarche d’horizontalité des savoirs et de reconnaissance des pratiques de chaque co-chercheur·e. Ainsi, différents médiums sont mobilisés tout au long d’un projet de RAC : la méthodologie, le dispositif et la médiation, répondant chacun à des objectifs complémentaires. Afin d’illustrer notre propos, nous présenterons la réalisation d’un projet de RAC mené au sein de plusieurs écoles maternelles entre septembre 2022 et juin 2023 en espérant que cette démarche pourra inspirer d’autres milieux que celui de la petite enfance pour faire de la recherche « autrement ».
Co-créer des objets de médiation pour enquêter sur l’expérience de la dialyse à domicile : médias du codesign et transformation de la relation chercheur-participant
Authors: Catoir-Brisson Marie-Julie , Paixão-Barradas Susana
Published: July 2024

Cet article présente une recherche interdisciplinaire par le design sur l’expérience de la dialyse à domicile et la communication entre patients, aidants et soignants (PAS). Nous précisons d’abord le besoin de recherche sur cette pathologie et la nécessité d’une approche spécifique pour prendre en compte l’expérience-patient et la rendre compréhensible et partageable. À partir d’une méthodologie ancrée dans le codesign, nous présentons le dispositif d’enquête, cocréé avec les patients en contexte de pandémie de COVID-19 de 2021 à 2023, basé sur la communication épistolaire et la photographie. Nous analysons le processus de cocréation des objets de médiation et son rôle dans la transformation des relations entre les patients et le chercheur. Les résultats présentés portent sur la factitivité des médias du codesign, en valorisant leur matérialité pour engager les participants dans l’enquête collective jusqu’aux ateliers de codesign. Nous montrons que la matérialité de ces objets de médiation a évolué en fonction de trois formes de médiation dans le projet participatif : s’immerger, coconcevoir et communiquer.
Prendre soin par la couleur : du design tinctorial au care
Authors: Talbot Delphine , Mardirossian Vanessa
Published: July 2024

Cet article explore la multidimensionnalité du médium couleur, en lien avec les teintures textiles. Il offre une perspective novatrice sur la relation complexe entre la création artistique et l’impact que la couleur peut avoir sur la santé selon les ingrédients qui la composent. À l’instar du philosophe Marshall McLuhan, pour qui « le contenu de tout médium est toujours un autre médium », les autrices fusionnent leur approche réflexive sur l’identité moléculaire des colorants, dont l’invisibilité est souvent « négligée » au profit de leur séduisante esthétique, qui occulte leur « caractère » toxique (McLuhan, 1964). La complémentarité d’expertises des autrices offre une pluralité de points de vue : d’une part, une approche systémique et biomimétique des couleurs, mêlant design, chimie et santé environnementale, d’autre part, l’aspect culturel, polysensoriel et botanique du médium couleur. Conjointement, les autrices aspirent à valoriser des richesses chromatiques anciennes et prospectives, en tout cas oubliées ou méconnues, afin de contribuer au développement pédagogique et industriel de colorants respectueux de l’environnement et de l’humain.
Une critique de l’hylémorphisme dans les théories du design d’interaction : recherche de concepts dans la philosophie pour appréhender la forme et la matérialité
Authors: Letondal Catherine , Giroud Guillaume , Pauchet Sylvain , Bornes Laetitia
Published: July 2024

La recherche d’une compréhension de l’émergence d’un design sur le plan de la forme et de la matière est ancienne. On observe une montée en puissance du concept de forme dans la littérature scientifique sur le design d’interaction, en parallèle d’un tournant matériel, pour exprimer les forces à l’œuvre dans la conception. Dans cet article, nous soulignons en quoi les théories actuelles nous semblent implicitement construites sur le paradigme hylémorphique, et ce, de manière peu cohérente. Pour rendre compte plus finement des mécanismes d’élaboration et de conception dans le design d’interaction, nous proposons d’utiliser les concepts explicites de transduction, de métastabilité, d’individuation et de concrétisation, tirés de l’approche critique du schéma hylémorphique de Gilbert Simondon. Au paradigme hylémorphique de la mise en forme aristotélicienne, nous opposons ainsi celui, transductif, de la prise de forme . Pour une meilleure compréhension, nous présentons une illustration de ces concepts dans un exemple : un dispositif tactile à changement de forme pour les pilotes d’avion de ligne.
Tranexamic Acid Reduces the Amount of Blood Transfused in Revision Total Hip Arthroplasty for Vancouver B2/B3 Periprosthetic Femur Fractures
Authors: Connors John Patrick , Magaldi Robert James , Strecker Sara Elaine , Carangelo Robert James , Witmer Dan
Published: July 2024

Background:

Periprosthetic fractures around total hip arthroplasty (THA) represent a significant source of morbidity and mortality. The use of tranexamic acid (TXA) in arthroplasty is well described, yet little literature supports its role in periprosthetic femur fractures (PFFs). This study investigated the effect of preoperative TXA administration on transfusion rate and volume, length of stay, and 90-day complication rates in patients undergoing revision THA for PFF.

Materials and Methods:

All patients undergoing revision THA for PFF (Vancouver B2/B3) at our institution from August 2016 to June 2022 were identified. Routine TXA administration at surgical start was introduced in 2018. Patient demographics, operative time, blood product use, length of stay, and 90-day complications were collected. Patients were divided into those who received TXA preoperatively and those who did not.

Results:

A total of 56 patients were included. There was no difference in age, sex, anesthetic type, fracture classification, or preoperative blood values between cohorts. TXA significantly lowered the amount of blood product required (2.3 units vs 3.2 units,
P
=.023). Preoperative TXA did not independently reduce length of stay; however, blood transfusion was associated with increased length of stay (7 days vs 4.7 days,
P
=.003). There were no differences in 90-day complications.

Conclusion:

Among patients who underwent revision THA for Vancouver B2/B3 PFF, TXA did not affect transfusion rates but did result in the use of fewer blood products without an increase in complications. We support routine use of TXA in this patient population. Future studies should assess earlier administration of TXA in the emergency department or once patients' conditions have been medically optimized. [
Orthopedics
. 2024;47(5):e261–e267.]
Homogenization of composite materials reinforced with unidirectional fibres with complex curvilinear cross section: a virtual element approach
Authors: Artioli E. , Elefante G. , Sommariva A. , Vianello M.
Published: July 2024

The paper presents an augmented curvilinear virtual element method to determine homogenized in-plane shear material moduli of long-fibre reinforced composites in the framework of asymptotic homogenization method. The new virtual element combine an exact representation of the curvilinear computational geometry for complex fibre cross section shapes through an innovative two-dimensional cubature suite for NURBS-like polygonal domains. A selection of representative numerical tests supports the accuracy and efficiency of the proposed approach for both doubly periodic and random fibre arrangement with matrix domain.
Families experiencing homelessness and the production of everyday urban space in Buenos Aires, Argentina (2017-2022)
Authors: Paiva Verónica
Published: July 2024

This article analyzes the production of space from the perspective of families experiencing homelessness who live in the Buenos Aires, the capital of Argentina. Based on census data and twelve in-depth interviews carried out in 2022, it explores the demographic, the infrastructure they use daily, their reasons for staying in a particular place, their routines, their social networks, and finally, the way they outfit their living area. In terms of housing trajectories, the article shows how those families alternate between boarding houses, shelters, and the street. This vicious circle of poverty is reinforced by public policies that provide only temporary assistance to cover a boarding house room or shelter. The analysis draws on Henri Lefebvre’s notion of “the production of space” and his triad of conceived, lived and perceived space as well as Angela Giglia’s concept of “inhabiting” [habitar].
Quantum Computing
Authors: Aggarwal Shruti , Bharti Vishal , Badhon Afroj Jahan
Published: July 2024

In this chapter, quantum computing concepts are discussed in detail. Discussion about qubit and allied terms is done in brief. Light is also thrown on quantum ambiguity, key distribution, quantum entanglement, quantum simulation, digital quantum simulation, etc. Further sections explore applications of quantum in image processing, wireless sensor protocol, routing protocol, and cyber security. Bibliographic analysis of research trends in quantum computing in cyber security is also discussed in detail in this chapter.
Well-Being and Health Through Autobiographical Pedagogy
Authors: Sirignano Fabrizio Manuel , Borghese Gabriele
Published: July 2024

The chapter outlines the theoretical foundations and methods of autobiographical pedagogy and its importance in the current context. The centrality of the narrative method for care settings in general and specifically for the care of the elderly is highlighted. With reference then to the medical humanities, the importance of the community dimension among individuals is underlined, also in order to recover a global perspective able to counteract the current fragmentation of knowledge. The fundamental contribution comes from the humanistic tradition, from arts to literature, that gives great weight to the 'story' and to the process of writing of them.
Creative Writing
Authors: Orts Carles Cortés
Published: July 2024

This research addresses the therapeutic effects of creative writing for population segments aged over 50. In recent years, the author has taught story and micro-story writing workshops as part of the University of Alicante's training programmes for senior citizens, and this experience provides the starting point for the study. The study has focused on the creation of micro-stories (stories up to 10-12 lines in length), useful in developing writing skills due to the concision and precision needed to meet the length requirements. Thus, workshop participants of this age group have to be creative and innovative, improve their concentration and experiment with creative structures. With these objectives, several techniques have been employed to combat ageism: looking for diverse voices and experiences, exploring ageing-related issues, challenging standards of beauty and success, promoting empathy and understanding, and avoiding stereotypes and clichés.
Mass Cataract Surgery Program as an Effective Approach to eradicate the Cataract backlog in Resource Constraint Settings-A real life experience
Authors: Malaravan M. , Jeyaratnam Thurga , Kumanan T.
Published: July 2024

No abstract available
Utilising Global Strategic Models to Formulate a Rail Freight Strategy for Sri Lanka
Authors: Warnapura Lakna L.
Published: July 2024

Rail freight in Sri Lanka is declining substantially in all respects of volume, mode share, financial performance, and service quality, which are severely lag far behind international standards. This dire situation calls for a complete reformation of the rail freight system from its inception. Moreover, the issue of overcrowded roads increases the urgency for an improved alternate mode of freight transportation. Accordingly, this research investigates a rail freight strategy for Sri Lanka, using a global strategic model to align the Sri Lankan railway with international standards. The strategy formulation model is a pre-designed multiplicative regression framework, crafted through insights gleaned from a comprehensive global analysis of strategies employed by different nations for revitalising the sector. This model was selected following a rigorous examination of available frameworks identified through a thorough literature survey. Finally, our application of the model to the Sri Lankan context suggests various strategic measures that could be taken to optimise the performance of the Sri Lanka Rail freight industry and its ability to conform to global standards. These measures span policy, business operating structure and operations of Sri Lanka rail.
IL-10 Is Critical for Regulation of Cytotoxic CD4+NKG7+ T Cells in Lung Allograft Rejection but Is Not Required for Allograft Acceptance
Authors: Das Antu , Wang Xingan , Devonshire Kaitlyn , Lyons Emily J , Popescu Iulia , Zhou Zihe , Li Jingmei , Sembrat John , Pilewski Joseph , Zou Chunbin , Alder Jonathan K , Chen Bill B , Snyder Mark E , McDyer John F
Published: July 2024

Lung transplant remains the primary therapeutic option for patients with end-stage lung disease, but long-term survival rates remain suboptimal compared with other solid organ transplants. Acute cellular rejection (ACR) is a significant challenge in lung transplant recipients, with T cell–mediated mechanisms playing a major role. IL-10 is known for its immunoregulatory function, although its specific role in lung allograft rejection remains unclear. Using the mouse orthotopic lung transplant model, we investigated the role of IL-10 in regulating alloeffector T cell responses. Unexpectedly, we found that IL-10 was not required for early costimulation blockade-induced allograft acceptance. However, IL-10 deficiency or blockade resulted in increased CD4+ T cell numbers, proliferation, graft infiltration, and alloeffector responses. In the absence of IL-10, CD4+ T cell responses predominated over CD8 responses during ACR in contrast to wild-type mice. Type 1 immunity (IFN-γ) responses along with elevated CD4+NKG7+ and CD4+CD107a+ responses predominated during ACR, highlighting a critical regulatory role for IL-10 in modulating CD4+ T cell alloimmune responses. We further demonstrated increased colocalization of NKG7 and CD107a in CD4+ T cells from IL-10-deficient allografts, suggesting coordination in cytotoxic activity. Together, our findings highlight a critical role for IL-10 in regulation of cytotoxic CD4+NKG7+ T cells, an effector population that needs further investigation to elucidate their role in lung allograft rejection.
Prevalence of Thyroid Nodules and Predictive Factors for their Malignancy: Is there any Correlation between Level of TSH and Type of Malignancy?: A Cross Sectional Study
Authors: Moradi Leila , Hani Tabaei Zavareh Mohsen , Zaman Ferdos , Shareghi Bruojeni Anahita , Taravati Seyed Amir Mohammad , Naderi Boldaji Hossein , Rostami Koushan , Shahrokh Seyedeh Ghazal
Published: July 2024

Background:

Thyroid nodule is a common finding of the endocrine system. Despite thyroid nodules in most cases being symptom-free and mostly benign, there are always malignancy risks. This study aimed to evaluate the frequency of types of thyroid nodules according to histopathology characteristics in Ahvaz hospitals.

Materials and Methods:

This retrospective cross-sectional study was performed on patients with thyroid nodules with histopathological diagnosis referred to the educational hospitals of Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences and private endocrine clinics in Ahvaz from 2018 to 2021. Demographic characteristics, clinical history, histopathological results, ultrasonographic findings, and the presence of lymphadenopathy were collected from the patient’s medical records.

Results:

A total of 380 patients with thyroid nodules with a mean age of 41.2 ± 12.28 years, 79.37% of whom were female were included in the study. A total of 267 (70/3%) cases were benign. Malignancy was found in 113 (29.7%) patients in which papillary thyroid cancer was the commonest histological diagnosis (n = 99; 87.61%). Age between 30 and 45 years (P = 0.001), bilateral involvement (P = 0.028), nodules size (P = 0.004), and lymph node involvement (P < 0.0001) were significantly associated with malignancy of thyroid nodules. However, there was no significant relationship between malignancy with gender (P = 0.450), BMI (P = 0.258), and history of head and neck radiotherapy (P = 0.200). There was no significant relationship between high thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) and the type of malignancy (P = 0.059).

Conclusion:

Malignant thyroid nodules were associated with factors including age between 30 and 40 years, bilateral nodules, and lymphadenopathy. Therefore, it is important to consider these risk factors in the management and risk assessment of thyroid nodules.
A Systems Biology Approach to the Pathogenesis of Celiac Disease: Identification of Potential Protective and Promoting Mechanisms
Authors: Fadaie Mahmood , Khalafiyan Anis , Ghafouri Elham , Ranjbarnejad Tayebeh , Moein Shiva
Published: July 2024

Background:

Celiac disease (CeD) is an autoimmune enteropathy triggered by dietary gluten. Almost 90% of CeD patients have HLA-DQ2 or -DQ8 haplotypes. As a high proportion of first-degree relatives (FDRs) of CeD patients have the same haplotype, it is assumed that they are at a higher risk of disease development than the general population. Nevertheless, the prevalence of CeD among FDRs is considerably low (7.5%).

Materials and Methods:

In order to figure out this discrepancy, a microarray dataset of intestinal mucosal biopsies of CeD patients, FDRs, and control groups was reanalyzed, and a protein-protein interaction network was constructed.

Results:

Principal component analysis showed that CeD and FDR groups are far away in terms of gene expression. Comparing differentially expressed genes of both networks demonstrated inverse expression of some genes mainly related to cell cycle mechanisms. Moreover, analysis of the modular structures of up- and downregulated gene networks determined activation of protein degradation mechanisms and inhibition of ribosome-related protein synthesis in celiac patients with an upside-down pattern in FDRs.

Conclusions:

The top-down systems biology approach determined some regulatory pathways with inverse function in CeD and FDR groups. These genes and molecular mechanisms could be a matter of investigation as potential druggable targets or prognostic markers in CeD.
Lidocaine and Dexamethasone, Ketamine and Dexamethasone, and Dexamethasone Alone in Tonsillectomy Complications
Authors: Heidari Morteza , Shetebi Hamidreza , Golshiri Parastoo , Hoghughi Somayeh
Published: July 2024

Background:

Common complications including stridor, laryngospasm, and bronchospasm are important in patients undergoing general anesthesia. Dexamethasone, lidocaine, and ketamine could have significant roles in reducing these complications. Here we aimed to compare the use of these drugs during tonsillectomy.

Materials and Methods:

This study was performed on 100 children that were candidates of tonsillectomy. Patients were divided into 4 groups receiving dexamethasone 0.1 mg/kg and lidocaine 1 mg/kg, ketamine 0.5 mg/kg and dexamethasone 0.1 mg/kg, dexamethasone 0.1 mg/kg, and normal saline after surgical procedures. We evaluated and compared data regarding the duration of anesthesia, oxygenation saturation, blood pressure (systolic and diastolic (SBP and DBP)), re-intubation, laryngospasm, bronchospasm, requiring analgesics after surgeries, recovery stay duration, and nausea and vomiting.

Results:

Administration of ketamine and dexamethasone was associated with the lowest pain and lowest need for postoperative analgesic administrations in patients (P = 0.02). Patients that received lidocaine and dexamethasone had the lowest frequencies of airway stimulations (P < 0.001). Evaluations of complications in patients revealed that stridor was significantly lower in patients that received ketamine and dexamethasone (P = 0.01).

Conclusion:

Usage of ketamine and dexamethasone was associated with the lowest pain severities and lowest complications. On the other hand, patients that received lidocaine and dexamethasone had the least airway stimulations.
Dimethyl Fumarate Preconditioning can Reinforce the Therapeutic Potential of Bone Marrow Mesenchymal Stem Cells through Trophic Factor Profile Enhancement
Authors: Pandamooz Sareh , Safari Anahid , Ghorbani Nasrin , Jamhiri Iman , Zare Shahrokh , Belém-Filho Ivaldo Jesus Almeida , Dolati Parisa , Salehi Mohammad Saied
Published: July 2024

Background:

Numerous studies have confirmed the therapeutic efficacy of bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (BM-MSCs) in addressing neurologic disorders. To date, several preconditioning strategies have been designed to improve the therapeutic potential of these stem cells. This study was designed to evaluate the preconditioning effect of dimethyl fumarate (DMF) on the expression of main trophic factors in human BM-MSCs.

Materials and Methods:

Initially, the identity of stem cells was confirmed through the evaluation of surface markers and their capacity for osteogenic and adipogenic differentiation using flow cytometry and differentiation assay, respectively. Subsequently, stem cells were subjected to different concentrations of DMF for 72 hours and their viability was defined by MTT assay. Following 72-hour preconditioning period with 10 µM DMF, gene expression was assessed by quantitative RT-PCR.

Results:

Our findings demonstrated that the isolated stem cells expressed cardinal MSC surface markers and exhibited osteogenic and adipogenic differentiation potential. MTT results confirmed that 10 µM DMF was an optimal dose for maintaining cell viability. Preconditioning of stem cells with DMF significantly upregulated the expression of BDNF, NGF, and NT-3. Despite a slight increase in transcript level of GDNF and VEGF after DMF preconditioning, this difference was not statistically significant.

Conclusions:

Our findings suggest that DMF preconditioning can enhance the expression of major neurotrophic factors in human BM-MSCs. Given the curative potential of both BM-MSCs and DMF in various neurological disease models and preconditioning outcomes, their combined use may synergistically enhance their neuroprotective properties.
Unveiling Potential Biomarkers for Urinary Tract Infection: An Integrated Bioinformatics Approach
Authors: Maddah Reza , Ghanbari Fahimeh , Veisi Maziyar , Koosehlar Eman , Shadpirouz Marzieh , Basharat Zarrin , Hejrati Alireza , Amiri Bahareh Shateri , Hejrati Lina
Published: July 2024

Background:

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are a widespread health concern with high recurrence rates and substantial economic impact, and they can increase the prevalence of antibiotic resistance. This study employed an integrated bioinformatics approach to identify key genes associated with UTI development, offering potential targets for interventions.

Materials and Methods:

For this study, the microarray dataset GSE124917 from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database was selected and reanalyzed. The differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between UTIs and healthy samples were identified using the LIMMA package in R software. In this section, Enrichr database was utilized to perform functional enrichment analysis of DEGs. Subsequently, the protein-protein interaction (PPI) network of the DEGs was constructed and visualized through Cytoscape, utilizing the STRING online database. The identification of hub genes was performed using Cytoscape’s cytoHubba plug-in employing various methods. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis was performed to assess the diagnostic accuracy of hub genes.

Results:

Among the outcomes of the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway analysis, the tumor necrosis factor (TNF) signaling pathway was identified as one of the notable pathways. The PPI network of the DEGs was successfully established and visualized in Cytoscape with the aid of the STRING online database. Using cytoHubba with different methods, we identified seven hub genes (STAT1, IL6, IFIT1, IFIT3, IFIH1, MX1, and IRF7). Based on the ROC analysis, all hub genes showed high diagnostic value.

Conclusion:

These findings provide a valuable baseline for future research aimed at unraveling the intricate molecular mechanisms behind UTI.
Autonomic Response Latency Revisited: Assessment of Repeatability in Healthy Subjects
Authors: Jose Annie S. , Srivastav Shival , Mehta Bharati
Published: July 2024

Background:

Autonomic function assessment provides valuable information regarding the status of the autonomic nervous system. The time lag between the onset of orthostasis and the peak/nadir of heart rate response is a surrogate of the integrity of underlying autonomic neural pathways. Autonomic response latency (ARL) is a relatively novel yet underreported parameter in this context. Test-retest repeatability of this parameter has not been evaluated previously.

Materials and Methods:

We recruited 31 healthy adults (17 males and 14 females; 29.00 ± 5.44 years) and subjected them to postural challenge tests on five instances – forenoon and afternoon of day 1, the next day, 1 week later, and 1 month later. Tachycardia and bradycardia latencies (TL and BL) were computed using heart rate derived from digital ECG data. Repeatability was assessed using the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) and coefficient of variation (CoV).

Results:

ICCs for TL and BL were 0.69 (0.56, 0.82) and 0.77 (0.66, 0.87), respectively. The CoVs for TL and BL were 14.8% and 12.4%, respectively. Sex-based subgroup analysis revealed ICCs for TL and BL in males to be 0.71 (0.53, 0.86) and 0.74 (0.57, 0.88) and in females to be 0.68 (0.64, 0.86) and 0.82 (0.66, 0.93), respectively. CoVs for TL and BL were 14.4% and 13.8% in male subjects and 15.4% and 10.7% in female subjects, respectively.

Conclusion:

ARL to orthostatic challenge demonstrated moderate to good test-retest repeatability. Based on our observations, we propose that ARL has potential as a consistent and repeatable index for the assessment of the integrity of autonomic neural pathways and therefore can help in the diagnosis of autonomic neuropathy.
Assessment of Long- and Short-Term Outcomes of Hysteroscopic Polypectomy in Patients with Uterine Polyps
Authors: Hashemi Maryam , Madani Elham S. , Ghahiri Ataallah , Tarrahi Mohammad J. , Rouholamin Safoura
Published: July 2024

Background:

Polyps are a common diagnosis in women of different ages. They can cause a variety of symptoms from bleeding to infertility and can even be the progenitor for malignancies.

Materials and Methods:

This was a retrospective cohort study conducted in Isfahan. A total of 1004 patients were included in this study. After hysteroscopic polypectomy, patients had their information regarding the complications and recurrence recorded.

Results:

Symptoms improved in 639 (63.8%). Recurrence of polyps was seen in 143 (14.2%) patients. A total of 170 had a successful pregnancy, with 110 of them spontaneous. Using scissors had lower recurrence compared to graspers. Eight cases had complications during the treatment, two of which were major.

Conclusion:

Hysteroscopic polypectomy is the treatment of choice for uterine polyps. We show hysteroscopic polypectomy to have a high success rate and a low complications rate, with polypectomies done using scissors to have lower risk of complications or recurrence compared to graspers.
Retinopathy of Prematurity (ROP)—Risk Factors and Therapeutic Effect of Intravitreal Injection of Bevacizumab (IVB): An Observational Study from a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit in Egypt
Authors: Hantash Ehab Mohamed , Al Zahrani Abdulrahman Abdullah , Serag Yasser Ragab
Published: July 2024

Objectives:

To study the epidemiological and demographic data of retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) as well as the effectiveness of intravitreal injection of bevacizumab (IVB) as monotherapy for type I ROP in a local neonatal intensive care unit in Egypt.

Methods:

An observational study, where the medical records of all babies eligible for ROP screening over a period of 12 months (2020–2021) were reviewed. The screening results were reported in stage, zone, extent, and plus disease. Babies with type 1 ROP were eligible for treatment with IVB. Their medical files were reviewed for possible risk factors associated with ROP. The primary outcomes were the presence or absence of ROP, eligibility for IVB, complications of IVB and regression or recurrence of ROP.

Results:

ROP affects a significant proportion of babies (55%). The lower the birth weight (and accordingly, the gestational age [GA]), the higher the incidence of ROP. Recurrent apnea, mechanical ventilation, and continuous positive airway pressure were associated with a significant risk for ROP. On the other hand, nasal cannula, sepsis, and blood transfusion did not significantly increase the risk of ROP. Although common, most cases (48.6%) had type 2 ROP and only required follow-up. IVB was effective and safe in arresting disease progression in 93% of the remaining patients with type 1 ROP (6.4%).

Conclusion:

ROP is a significant cause of morbidity in preterm babies in Egypt. Low birth weight, apnea, and respiratory support are significant risk factors. Most cases are mild and only require follow-up. Up to 6.4% of the cases had type 1 ROP. Monotherapy with IVB appears to be effective and safe. Neonatal care has to be optimized to further reduce the current incidence rate of ROP.
Vestibular rehabilitation in adults: An overview
Authors: Nocini Riccardo , Monzani Daniele , Arietti Valerio , Giacomo Papi , Segato Erika , Cornale Nicola , Lovato Andrea , Apa Enrico , Palma Silvia
Published: July 2024

Vertigo and dizziness are among the most common medical complaints, affecting an estimated 15%–30% of the adult population, increasing in frequency with age, and causing disability with high social costs. Over the years, the range of vestibular rehabilitation (VR) techniques available to patients has expanded from the 1940s, when Cawthorne and Cooksey observed that subjects with vestibular injuries tended to do better with exercises aimed at promoting eye and head movements in a graded manner, to today with the increasingly widespread use of virtual reality. The aim of this article is to trace the most important steps in the history of VR.
Evaluation of an AI algorithm trained on an ethnically diverse dataset to screen a previously unseen population for diabetic retinopathy
Authors: Rao Divya P , Savoy Florian M , Sivaraman Anand , Dutt Sreetama , Shahsuvaryan Marianne , Jrbashyan Nairuhi , Hambardzumyan Narine , Yeghiazaryan Nune , Das Taraprasad
Published: July 2024

Purpose:

This study aimed to determine the generalizability of an artificial intelligence (AI) algorithm trained on an ethnically diverse dataset to screen for referable diabetic retinopathy (RDR) in the Armenian population unseen during AI development.

Methods:

This study comprised 550 patients with diabetes mellitus visiting the polyclinics of Armenia over 10 months requiring diabetic retinopathy (DR) screening. The Medios AI-DR algorithm was developed using a robust, diverse, ethnically balanced dataset with no inherent bias and deployed offline on a smartphone-based fundus camera. The algorithm here analyzed the retinal images captured using the target device for the presence of RDR (i.e., moderate non-proliferative diabetic retinopathy (NPDR) and/or clinically significant diabetic macular edema (CSDME) or more severe disease) and sight-threatening DR (STDR, i.e., severe NPDR and/or CSDME or more severe disease). The results compared the AI output to a consensus or majority image grading of three expert graders according to the International Clinical Diabetic Retinopathy severity scale.

Results:

On 478 subjects included in the analysis, the algorithm achieved a high classification sensitivity of 95.30% (95% CI: 91.9%–98.7%) and a specificity of 83.89% (95% CI: 79.9%–87.9%) for the detection of RDR. The sensitivity for STDR detection was 100%.

Conclusion:

The study proved that Medios AI-DR algorithm yields good accuracy in screening for RDR in the Armenian population. In our literature search, this is the only smartphone-based, offline AI model validated in different populations.