bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Normative Values for Heart Rate Variability Indices in Healthy Infants in the Emergency Department
Authors: Mathiprechakul Supranee , Guo Dagang , Chong Shu-Ling , Piragasam Rupini , Ong Marcus Eng Hock , Fook-Chong Stephanie , Ong Gene Yong-Kwang
Published: July 2024

Heart rate variability (HRV) has been used as a marker of cardiovascular health and a risk factor for mortality in the adult and paediatric populations, and as an indicator of neonatal sepsis. There has been an increasing interest in using short-term (5-minutes) HRV to identify infants <90 days of life with serious bacterial infections. However, there has not been any normative data range reported for short-term HRV indices in this infant population. We conducted a prospective observational study of short-term HRV analysis of well infants <90 days of life in the emergency department (ED) setting. 108 infants with complete data [51.9% male, median age 9 days (inter-quartile range 4-35 days)] were included. We found that heart rate (HR) is correlated with heart rate variability. Thus, normalisation of HRV parameters was done to remove their dependence on HR. We then provided a normative reference range of widely used short-term HRV time-domain, frequency-domain, and non-linear HRV metrics in our cohort. We produced a HRV calculator for evaluation of these short-term HRV variables in young infants in ED settings that can be used for future clinical research.
Postoperative Ascending Aortic Aneurysm in Pulmonary Atresia with Ventricular Septal Defect: Report of 3 Adult Cases
Authors: Zhang Zhengjie , Zhang Mingkui , Xue Hui , Fan Lixin
Published: July 2024

Background: Progressive dilation of the ascending aorta is prone to lead to aortic dissection in patients with pulmonary artery atresia and ventricular septal defect. However, reports of long-term complications such as aortic aneurysm or aortic dissection in adults with pulmonary artery atresia are relatively rare.
Case presentation: Case 1: A 38-year-old male patient diagnosed with "pulmonary artery atresia, ventricular septal defect, bicuspid aortic valve deformity" underwent ventricular septal defect repair, aortic valve replacement, and correction of pulmonary artery atresia at the age of 21. Seventeen years postoperatively, he developed aortic dissection and underwent Bentall surgery.
Case 2: A 33-year-old male patient diagnosed with "pulmonary artery atresia, ventricular septal defect" underwent Blalock-Taussig shunt surgery at the age of 17. Sixteen years postoperatively, he developed aortic root aneurysm and ascending aortic dilation.
Case 3: A 42-year-old female patient diagnosed with "pulmonary artery atresia, ventricular septal defect" underwent pulmonary artery atresia corrective surgery and ventricular septal defect repair at the age of 14. Twenty-eight years postoperatively, she developed aortic root aneurysm and ascending aortic dilation.
Conclusions: Following corrective surgery for pulmonary artery atresia with ventricular septal defect, long-term follow-up monitoring is necessary. Progressive dilation of the aorta should be promptly intervened to prevent the occurrence of aortic dissection.
Influence Of Maxillary Central Incisor Dimensions, Angulations & Positions Bilaterally On The Perception Of Smile Esthetics
Authors: Ahsan Mafaz Bin , Shetty Subramanya , Shetty Sandeep
Published: July 2024

Objective
An attractive smile achievement is one of the main goals of Orthodontic treatment. Smile is the product of several factors interacting to differing degrees of relevance. This study was based on the hypothesis that an increase in crown width of the maxillary central incisors is considered equally attractive amongst Orthodontists, Prosthodontists and Laypersons.
Materials and Methods
The frontal smile photographs of a male and a female participants were captured. The maxillary central incisors’ vertical position (+ 0.5 mm, + 1 mm, -0.5 mm, -1 mm), angulation (+ 20,+40,-20,-40) and mesio distal width (+ 0.5 mm, + 1 mm, -0.5 mm, -1 mm) were changed generating a total of 26 photographs. The photographs were rated for their smiles using a Visual Analogue Scale by the 3 Observer groups.
Results
Twenty-five photographs showed statistically significant differences in perception scores. Among these, none revealed any statistically significant disparity between Orthodontists and Prosthodontists, fifteen displayed statistically significant difference in perception scores between Orthodontists and Laypersons and all 25 photographs displayed statistically significant differences in perception scores of prosthodontists and laypersons.
Conclusions
Orthodontists rated the Female Ideal Smile as the most attractive while Prosthodontists rated the Female Smile with Digitally altered vertical position of Maxillary Central Incisors by -1 mm to be the most attractive and Laypersons rated the Female Smile with Digitally altered vertical position of Maxillary Central Incisor by -0.5 mm as the most attractive. Consequently, it was established that the hypothesis was false.
Clinical relevance
Useful in quantification and esthetic evaluation of smile as a routine diagnostic procedure.
Development and validation of a new tool to estimate early mortality in patients with advanced cancer treated with immunotherapy
Authors: De Giglio Andrea , Leonetti Alessandro , Comito Francesca , Filippini Daria Maria , Mollica Veronica , Rihawi Karim , Peroni Marianna , Mazzaschi Giulia , Ricciotti Ilaria , Carosi Francesca , Marchetti Andrea , Rosellini Matteo , Gagliano Ambrogio , Favorito Valentina , Nobili Elisabetta , Gelsomino Francesco , Melotti Barbara , Marchese Paola Valeria , Sperandi Francesca , Federico Alessandro Di , Buti Sebastiano , Perrone Fabiana , Massari Francesco , Pantaleo Maria Abbondanza , Tiseo Marcello , Ardizzoni Andrea
Published: July 2024

Background:
Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) are standard treatments for advanced solid cancers. Resistance to ICIs, both primary and secondary, poses challenges, with early mortality (EM) within 30–90 days indicating a lack of benefit. Prognostic factors for EM, including the Lung Immune Prognostic Index (LIPI), remain underexplored.
Methods:
We performed a retrospective, observational study including patients affected by advanced solid tumors, treated with ICI as single-agent or combined with other agents. Logistic regression models identified factors associated with EM and 90-day progression risks. A nomogram for predicting 90-day mortality was built and validated within an external cohort .
Results:
637 patients received ICIs (single-agent or in combination with other drugs) for advanced solid tumors. Most patients were male (61.9%), with NSCLC as the prevalent tumor (61.8%). Within the cohort, 21.3% died within 90 days, 8.4% died within 30 days, and 34.5% experienced early progression. Factors independently associated with 90-day mortality included ECOG PS 2 and a high/intermediate LIPI score. For 30-day mortality, lung metastasis and a high/intermediate LIPI score were independent risk factors. Regarding early progression, high/intermediate LIPI score was independently associated. A predictive nomogram for 90-day mortality combining LIPI and ECOG PS achieved an AUC of 0.76 (95% CI, 0.71–0.81). The discrimination ability of the nomogram was confirmed in the external validation cohort (n = 255) (AUC 0.72,95% CI, 0.64–0.80).
Conclusion:
LIPI and ECOG PS independently were able to estimate 90-day mortality, with LIPI also demonstrating prognostic validity for 30-day mortality and early progression.
Roles of plasma proteins in mediating the causal effect of the lipid species on gastric cancer and exploring potential drug targets for gastric cancer：insights from proteomic and two-step mendelian randomization and macromolecular docking
Authors: Dong Zhenhua , Chen Zhiqing , Zhao Dingling , Jia Jianling , Cao Hongliang , Wang Pengyu , Yu Kai , Gao Xulei , Wang Daguang
Published: July 2024

Background
The change of plasma lipid species has close contacts with gastric cancer (GC). However, the specific mechanism still needs to explore further.
Objectives
We aim to utilize plasma proteins to decipher the association between lipid species and GC, and seek possible drug targets for GC.
Methods
A two-step mendelian randomization (MR) is conducted to identify the causal relationship among 179 lipid species, 4907 plasma proteins and GC. We employ the summary mendelian randomization (SMR) and colocalization to explore relationship between plasma proteins and GC. We use one protein data including 35559 individuals as discovery group, meanwhile the other one from 54219 subjects as validation group.
MR is performed to identify the association between lipid species and GC or plasma proteins. Based on chosen proteins, we use macromolecular docking to find potential components as ligands.
Results
MR identifies the causality between 12 lipid species and GC, 3 proteins and GC, 2 lipid species and 2 proteins. After the test of propagation of error method, we conclude that CCDC80 protein mediates (30.8%; 95% confidents interval (Cl), 6.4%-64.0%) of the association between Diacylglycerol (16:1_18:1) and GC. For CCDC80, we choose 4 components including 2,3,7,8-Tetrachlorodibenzo-P-dioxin, Benzo[a]pyrene, Bisphenol A, Valproic Acid as potential drugs.
Conclusion
Our study suggests that CCDC80, a drug target, is a mediator between Diacylglycerol (16:1_18:1) and GC, which may guide a novel direction for GC treatment.
Compare gap between dentin and composite using Optical Coherence Tomography and leakage test
Authors: Khaled Abu Hasan Mohammad , Sato Takaaki , Tabata Tomoko , Zhao Mengtian , Kibe Kota , Ikeda Masaomi , Shimada Yasushi
Published: July 2024

Background
Composite resins have become the preferred option for dental restorations. Numerous studies have demonstrated that composite restorations can provide exceptional durability and longevity in clinical practice. However, gap formation at the resin-dentin interface can compromise the integrity of the restoration, potentially leading to its failure. There are many established methods to detect these gaps. Optical coherence tomography (OCT), Leakage tests, and many others may detect the gap successfully. Additionally, tooth structures can vary significantly based on their location. The study aimed to compare the gap formation between dentin and composite resin using OCT and the leakage test.
Methods
Three cavities were prepared for each bovine tooth (coronal, cervical, and root). Cavities were filled by Scotchbond Universal Plus Adhesive and Filtek Supreme Flowable Restorative. After the water storage (37°C, 24 h), the cavity bottom interface was observed using OCT. Continuously, these samples were cut for leakage test. Specimens were immersed in 50% ammoniacal silver nitrate solution (AgNO3) and photo-development solution. Finally, Energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) analysis was performed on the cavity bottom interface. Two-dimensional (2D) images of both devices were analyzed to calculate a sealed interface percentage (SI%).
Results
At all sites (coronal, cervical, and root), EDS showed a significantly higher SI% value compared to OCT. No significant differences depending on sites were observed.
Conclusion
The influence of different cavity sites was not observed in both OCT and leakage tests. The differences in gap detection were observed between measurement devices, with EDS showing higher values than OCT at all sites.
A path analysis model of the effects of gambling advertising on people diagnosed with gambling disorder
Authors: Lopez-Gonzalez Hibai , Granero Roser , Fernández-Aranda Fernando , Griffiths Mark D , Jiménez-Murcia Susana
Published: July 2024

Background There is a consensus in the literature that gambling advertising disproportionately affects those experiencing higher gambling severity. However, the relationship of gambling advertising and severity is typically assessed among samples recruited from online panels using screening tools as the method to categorize the gambling severity status of participants. Alternatively, other studies use small groups of gamblers (i.e., qualitative studies). The present paper reports findings from a sample of gamblers diagnosed with gambling disorder by professional clinicians via individual interviews. The study investigated the association between gambling advertising and gambling severity by looking at other psychologically relevant variables such as impulsivity, emotion regulation, and general psychopathology. Methods A sample of 210 consecutive treatment-seeking patients was recruited from a public hospital from June 2019 to January 2021. A path analysis model was run to determine the relationship between the variables. Gambling advertising was constructed as a latent variable, comprising the perceived impact of gambling advertising, persuasion knowledge, and the attitudes towards gambling advertising. Results Gamblers with greater gambling severity reported higher perceived impact of gambling advertising, and more positive attitudes toward gambling advertising. Gambling advertising was a mediator in the paths between emotion regulation and gambling severity, and between impulsivity and gambling severity. Conclusions The study demonstrates among individuals with verified gambling disorder that there is a relationship between gambling advertising and gambling severity. Regulators have an empirical basis on which to restrict the exposure to gambling advertising of vulnerable groups.
Standard diet and animal source influence hippocampal spatial reference learning and memory in congenic C57BL/6J mice
Authors: Hart Damyan W. , Sherman Mathew A. , Kim Minwoo , Pelzel Ross , Brown Jennifer L. , Lesné Sylvain E.
Published: July 2024

Background: Assessing learning and memory has become critical to evaluate brain function in health, aging or neurological disease. The hippocampus is crucially involved in these processes as illustrated by H.M.’s remarkable case and by the well-established early symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease. Numerous studies have reported the impact of gut microbiota on hippocampal structure and function using pro-, pre- and antibiotics, diet manipulations, germ-free conditions or fecal transfer. However, most diet manipulations have relied on Western diet paradigms (high fat, high energy, high carbohydrates). Here, we compared the impact of two standard diets, 5K52 and 2918 (6% fat, 18% protein, 3.1kcal/g), and how they influenced hippocampal learning and memory in adult 6-month-old congenic C57BL/6J mice from two sources.
Results: Using a hippocampal-dependent task, we found that 5K52-fed mice performed consistently better than 2918-fed animals in the Barnes circular maze. These behavioral differences were accompanied with marked changes in microbiota, which correlated with spatial memory retention performance. We next tested whether 2918-induced alterations in behavior and microbiome could be rescued by 5K52 diet for 3 months. Changing the 2918 diet to 5K52 diet mid-life improved spatial learning and memory in mice. Shotgun sequencing and principal component analyses revealed significant differences at both phylum and species levels. Multivariate analyses identified Akkermansia muciniphila or Bacteroidales bacterium M11 and Faecalibaculum rodentium as the strongest correlates to spatial memory retention in mice depending on the animal source. In both settings, the observed behavioral differences only affected hippocampal-dependent performance as mice fed with either diet did similarly well on the non-spatial variant of the Y-maze.
Conclusions: In summary, these findings demonstrate the diverging effects of seemingly equivalent standard diets on hippocampal memory. Based on these results, we strongly recommend the mandatory inclusion of the diet and source of animals used in rodent behavioral studies.
Evaluating the Effectiveness of Green Roofs and Walls in Nigeria’s Urban Centers
Authors: Unegbu H. C. O. , Yawas D. S. , Dan-asabe B. , Alabi A. A.
Published: July 2024

This study evaluates the environmental, economic, and social impacts of green roofs and walls in urban centers in Nigeria, focusing on Lagos, Abuja, and Port Harcourt. Utilizing a mixed-methods approach, data were collected through surveys, in-depth interviews, direct observations, and document analysis, with a total sample size of 866 respondents. The findings indicate significant environmental benefits, including reductions in urban heat island effects and improvements in air quality. Economically, green roofs and walls contribute to notable energy savings, increased property values, and extended lifespan of roofing materials. Socially, these infrastructures enhance mental well-being and foster community engagement. However, the study also identifies substantial challenges to adoption, such as high initial installation costs and technical maintenance difficulties. Despite these barriers, the positive perceptions and reported benefits suggest a strong potential for green roofs and walls to contribute to sustainable urban development in Nigeria. Comparative analysis with global case studies reveals that the benefits observed in Nigerian cities are consistent with international findings. The study underscores the need for targeted policy interventions, financial incentives, and public awareness campaigns to overcome the identified barriers. By addressing these challenges, it is possible to harness the full potential of green roofs and walls, contributing to more sustainable and livable urban environments in Nigerian cities.
Radiological evaluation of different retroperitoneal lymph node measurements in stage 1 testicular cancer patients: influence on clinical stage and therapy
Authors: Strauch Angelina , Nestler Kai , Schoch Justine , Kubitscheck Laura , Waldeck Stephan , Schmelz Hans , Nestler Tim
Published: July 2024

Purpose To investigate current inconsistent guideline recommendations for the initial staging of retroperitoneal lymph node metastasis in testicular germ cell tumor (GCT) patients and their influence on clinical stage (cS) and therapy.Methods 154 cSI GCT patients who underwent orchiectomy without any adjuvant therapy and a follow-up ≥ 24 months were retrospectively examined. cSI was defined as retroperitoneal lymph nodes < 10mm in axial short-axis diameter (SAD). Retroperitoneal lymph nodes were measured in staging imaging, considering the different dimensions (SAD and long-axis diameter (LAD)) in the three different radiological planes: axial, sagittal and coronal.Results Overall survival (OS) was 100%, 82% were free of recurrence, with a median follow-up of 83 months. By using axial SAD (RECIST 1.1), all patients were classified as cSI. Based on axial LAD (SWENOTECA, German S3 guideline) or maximum LAD in any plane (EAU, ESMO, onkopedia and AJCC), significantly more patients would be classified as cSIIA (0% vs. 38% vs. 52%) or even cSIIB (0% vs. 1% vs. 25%); p < 0.001. Overtreatment would occur in 0%, 31% and 61% for axial SAD, axial LAD and maximum LAD, while undertreatment would affect 18%, 10% and 2%, respectively (p < 0.001).Conclusion We found a huge variety of cS based on different lymph node staging recommendations in current guidelines. With 100% OS in the entire cohort and balancing risks of overtreatment and undertreatment, with stage-adapted treatment at relapse, a prospective multicenter study should investigate whether using axial SAD according to RECIST 1.1 could be the supposed best parameter to standardize guideline recommendations.
Cerebellar glioblastoma in adults: a comparative single-center matched pair analysis and systematic review of the literature
Authors: Lizunou Yauhen , Potthoff Anna-Laura , Schäfer Niklas , Waha Andreas , Borger Valeri , Herrlinger Ulrich , Vatter Hartmut , Schuss Patrick , Schneider Matthias
Published: July 2024

Purpose
The rarity of cerebellar glioblastoma presents a significant challenge in clinical practice due to the lack of extensive prognostic data on long-term survival rates, rendering it an underrepresented entity compared to its supratentorial counterpart. This study aims to analyze potential differences in survival outcome between patients with cerebellar and supratentorial glioblastomas.
Methods
From 2009 to 2020, 8 patients underwent surgical treatment for cerebellar glioblastoma at the authors’ institution. These patients were individually matched with a cohort of 205 consecutive patients from our institutional database with supratentorial glioblastoma, taking into account key prognostic parameters. We compared progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) rates and performed a systematic literature review to compile additional survival data on cerebellar glioblastoma.
Results
The median OS for cerebellar glioblastoma patients was 18 months (95% CI 11–25). The balanced matched-pair analysis showed no significant difference in survival when compared to patients with supratentorial glioblastoma, exhibiting a median OS of 23 months (95% CI 0–62) (p = 0.63). Respective values for PFS were 8 months (95% CI 4–12) for cerebellar and 7 months (95% CI 0–16) for supratentorial glioblastoma (p = 0.2). The systematic review revealed that median OS for cerebellar glioblastoma in current literature ranges from 7 to 21 months.
Conclusions
The present findings indicate that patients with supra- and infratentorial glioblastoma do not significantly differ in regard to survival outcome parameters. This similarity in prognosis might encourage clinicians to consider surgical interventions for both supra- and infratentorial BMs in a similar manner.
Changes in Retromandibular Vein-Skin Distance Depending on Tumor Size and Volume in Benign Superficial Parotid Salivary Gland Tumors: A Magnetic Resonance Imaging-Based Evaluation
Authors: Baklacı Deniz , Dalgıç Mustafa , Bilgin Ergin , Işık Hüseyin , Alıcıoğlu Banu , Erdem Duygu
Published: July 2024

Objectives.
To investigate the effect of tumor size and volume on the retromandibular vein-skin distance and indirectly on the localization of the facial nerve in patients diagnosed with benign superficial parotid salivary gland tumors, using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings.
Methods.
The study included 56 patients who were diagnosed with benign superficial parotid gland tumors and underwent superficial parotidectomy. The relationship of tumor size (anterior-posterior [AP], transverse, and craniocaudal [CC]) and volume with the retromandibular vein-skin distance was evaluated using MRI.
Results.
In the MRI examination of the patients, the mean skin-vein distance was 25.88 ± 6.35 mm on the tumor-positive side and 18.29 ± 4.52 mm on the tumor-negative side. The mean skin-vein distance on the tumor side was found to be statistically significantly higher than on the tumor-free side (p < 0.001). There was a positive correlation between the skin-vein distance measured on the tumor side and the anteroposterior diameter of the tumor (r = 0.537, p < 0.001). A positive correlation was also observed between the tumor side skin-vein distance and the transverse diameter of the tumor (r = 0.644, p < 0.001). ​​Another positive correlation was found between the skin-vein distance on the tumor side and the CC diameter ​​of the tumor (r = 0.622, p < 0.001). Lastly, there was a positive correlation between the skin-vein distance on the tumor side ​​and tumor volume ​​(r = 0.629, p < 0.001). As the tumor size and volume increased, the skin-vein distance ​​also increased.
Conclusion.
We demonstrated that in benign tumors of the superficial lobe of the parotid gland, the retromandibular vein-skin distance increased on MRI in relation to tumor size and volume. Based on these radiological findings, it is possible to infer that the retromandibular vein lies more medially in cases of benign tumors of the superficial parotid lobe, consequently suggesting that the facial nerve is located deeper.
Loss of chromosome cytoband 13q14.2 orchestrates breast cancer pathogenesis and drug response
Authors: Shahrouzi Parastoo , Azimzade Youness , Brankiewicz Wioletta , Bhatia Sugandha , Kunke David , Richard Derek , Tekpli Xavier , Kristensen Vessela N. , Duijf Pascal H.G.
Published: July 2024

Breast cancer (BCa) is a major global health challenge, characterized by chromosomal instability (CIN) and subsequent acquisition of extensive somatic copy number alterations (CNAs). CNAs including amplifications and deletions, significantly influence intra-tumor heterogeneity and the tumor microenvironment (TME). Among these, the loss of chromosome 13q14.2 emerges as a considerable factor in BCa pathogenesis and treatment responses. We provide evidence that this genomic alteration is under positive selective pressure, correlating with poorer patient survival.Furthermore, through multi-omic and in vitro analyses, we uncover a dual role of 13q14.2 loss: it confers a survival advantage to tumor cells and modulate the cell cycle and pro-apoptotic pathways in cancer cells, affecting macrophages population in the TME, while paradoxically increasing tumor susceptibility to BCL2 inhibitors. These findings suggest that targeting 13q14.2 as a biomarker in BCa could enhance the efficacy of existing treatments and offer a new avenue for improving clinical outcomes in BCa.
Effect of implementing clinical guidelines for treatment of symptoms in advanced cancer patients in specialist palliative care: A nationwide register-based study
Authors: Rojas-Concha Leslye , Hansen Maiken Bang , Adsersen Mathilde , Petersen Morten Aagaard , Larsen Henrik , Groenvold Mogens
Published: July 2024

Background: There is limited evidence on whether the implementation of clinical guidelines has a positive effect on the symptomatology of cancer patients in palliative care. A large national project conducted 2017-2019 aimed to improve the quality of life of cancer patients by implementing clinical guidelines for severe pain, dyspnea, constipation and depression in Danish specialist palliative care. We investigated how pain, dyspnea, constipation and depression changed from the start of palliative care to 1-4 weeks later and whether changes were associated with timing of guideline implementation and with receipt of treatment according to guidelines.
Methods: A prospective, national quality improvement study. Data for the project was obtained from the Danish Palliative Care Database. We included adult patients with advanced cancer who answered the European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnire-Core-15-Palliative Care (EORTC QLQ-C15-PAL) questionnaire at the start of specialist palliative care and 1-4 weeks later. Multiple linear regression evaluated associations between changes in symptom severity and timing of guideline implementation and receiving treatment according to guidelines.
Results: Of 4,640 patients completing both EORTC QLQ-C15-PAL questionnaires, 3,879 (84%) qualified for one or more treatment guidelines. Pain, dyspnea, constipation and depression improved significantly. Timing of guideline implementation and receiving treatment according to guidelines were not associated with improvement, except for dyspnea, where small associations were observed.
Conclusions: Patients reported improved pain, dyspnea, constipation and depression, but this improvement was not consistently associated with the implementation of the four guidelines in palliative care. The lack of impact may be attributed to a modest impact on clinical practice or the observational project design.
Impact of COVID-19 Health Precautions on Asymptomatic Streptococcus pyogenes Carriage in Palestinian Children: A Before and After Study
Authors: Ghannam Ibrahim Amer , Maraqa Rana Mahmoud , Qawasmeh Duha Shokri , Alsous Rania Khalil , Jaber Sakra Mohammad Abu , Ghatasha Iman Abd Almuti , Ghannam Yahya Ibrahim
Published: July 2024

Background Streptococcus pyogenes (Group A Streptococcus, GAS) is a significant pathogen that causes diverse infections, ranging from pharyngitis to severe invasive diseases. Asymptomatic carriage in children is pivotal for transmission. The COVID-19 pandemic's health measures, including mask wearing and enhanced hand hygiene, likely influenced GAS transmission dynamics. This study evaluated the impact of these precautions on the prevalence of asymptomatic pharyngeal GAS carriage among schoolchildren in the southern West Bank, Palestine.Methods This cross-sectional study was conducted in two phases: pre-COVID-19 (November 2019 - January 2020) and post-COVID-19 (November 2023 - April 2024). Throat swabs from 701 children (345 pre-COVID-19, 356 post-COVID-19) were collected using cluster sampling. The samples were tested using the ABON Strep A rapid test and confirmed by culture. Sociodemographic, health, and household data were gathered. The statistical analyses included descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and binary logistic regression.Results The prevalence of asymptomatic GAS carriage significantly decreased from 15.7% in 2019 to 10.4% in 2024 (p = 0.038). The gender distribution remained stable (p = 0.662), while urban residence increased significantly from 34.5–41.6% (p = 0.050). The use of private wells for drinking water increased from 17.7–32.0% (p < 0.001), with private well users having greater odds of GAS carriage than municipal water users (adjusted OR = 4.128, 95% CI: 2.175–7.830, p < 0.001). Consistent hand hygiene was associated with lower odds of carriage (adjusted OR = 0.367, 95% CI: 0.184–0.730, p < 0.001), and regular teeth brushing also significantly reduced odds (adjusted OR for brushing twice daily = 0.055, 95% CI: 0.019–0.157, p < 0.001).Conclusions COVID-19-related health precautions were correlated with a significant reduction in asymptomatic GAS carriage among Palestinian children. These findings suggest that public health measures, such as mask wearing and hand hygiene, can influence the transmission of respiratory pathogens. Ongoing surveillance and targeted interventions are essential for managing GAS infections, particularly in resource-limited settings.
The relationship between sleep difficulties and externalizing and internalizing problems in children and adolescents with mental illness.
Authors: Tetering Emilie Maria Antonia van , Mies Gabry , Klip Helen , Pillen Sigrid , Muskens Jet B , Polderman Tinca , Mheen Malindi van der , Staal Wouter G , Pieters Sara
Published: July 2024

Sleep difficulties are presumably a transdiagnostic factor in the complex etiology of psychiatric disorders in youth. This study assessed the prevalence of sleep difficulties in children and adolescents seeking specialized psychiatric care, examined the relationships internalizing and externalizing problems, and considered the moderating role of sex and age on these relationships. Parent-reported data on difficulties initiating sleep, difficulties maintaining sleep, early morning awakenings and daytime fatigue from a large sample of children and adolescents referred for specialized psychiatric care (n = 4,638; <18 years) were used to estimate prevalence rates. To examine associations between these sleep difficulties and internalizing/externalizing problems, multiple linear regression analyses were conducted on available data (n = 3,768) stratified in three age groups. Overall prevalence, i.e., at least one sleep difficulty was reported to be often or always present, was 65%. Difficulties initiating sleep occurred the most, closely followed by daytime fatigue. In all age groups, sleep difficulties were positively related to internalizing and externalizing problems. In young children and school-age children, age moderated the interaction between sleep difficulties and internalizing problems. To conclude, prevalence rates of sleep difficulties in children with mental illness appear higher than in the general youth population, especially difficulties initiating sleep and daytime fatigue. We observed that the associations between internalizing problems and sleep difficulties in young children and school-age children seemed to be amplified with age, suggesting a negative, bidirectional, spiral in development.
Machine learning models reveal microbial signatures in healthy human tissues, challenging the sterility of human organs
Authors: SKOULAKIS ANARGYROS , SKOUFOS GIORGOS , OVSEPIAN ARMEN , HATZIGEORGIOU ARTEMIS G.
Published: July 2024

Background
The presence of microbiomes within healthy human internal organs still remains under question. Our study endeavors to discern distinctive microbial signatures within normal human internal tissues from the Genotype-Tissue Expression (GTEx) consortium through the application of machine learning (ML) models. Machine learning models were developed to classify each tissue type against all others using solely the microbial profile of the tissues. The identification of tissue-specific microbial signatures that enable machine learning models to accurately predict different tissue types would suggest the presence of distinct microbial communities within tissues. To identify these microbial signatures, we analyzed 13,871 normal RNA-seq samples from 28 tissues obtained from the GTEx database.
Results
Tissue-specific microbial signatures were identified in 11 out of the 28 tissues while the signatures for 8 tissues (Muscle, Heart, Stomach, Colon tissue, Testis, Blood, Liver, and Bladder tissue) demonstrated resilience to in silico contamination. As the GTEx samples were derived from post-mortem biopsies, healthy living tissue samples were also analyzed to further validate the results. The models for Heart, Colon tissue, and Liver displayed high discriminatory performance in the living dataset, suggesting the presence of a tissue-specific microbiome for these tissues even in a living state. Notably, the most crucial features were the fungus Sporisorium graminicola for the heart, the gram-positive bacterium Flavonifractor plautii for the colon tissue, and the gram-negative bacterium Bartonella machadoae for the liver. The presence of contamination-resilient tissue-specific microbial signatures implies that microbial colonization is not a random occurrence.
Conclusions
The presence of tissue-specific microbial signatures in certain tissues suggests that these organs are not devoid of microorganisms even in healthy conditions and probably they harbor low-biomass microbial communities unique to each tissue. The discoveries presented here confront the enduring dogma positing the sterility of internal tissues, yet further validation through controlled laboratory experiments is imperative to substantiate this hypothesis. Exploring the microbiome of internal tissues holds promise for elucidating the pathophysiology underlying both health and a spectrum of diseases, including sepsis, inflammation, and cancer.
Evaluation and classification of soil infiltration capacity, hydrologic soil groups and suitability rating classes for irrigation application of fadama soils
Authors: USMAN Suleiman , Usman Suleiman
Published: July 2024

Information regarding the soil water relationship for irrigation under fadama management system is crucial. A field measurement study was undertaken to evaluate and classify the infiltration rates, infiltration capacity and hydrological soil group classes of fadama in the study area. Fifteen (15) different soil units were randomly selected based on the presence of agricultural activities and the nature of irrigation applications. The infiltration rates for all the soil units ranged between 2.4 cm/hr and 12 cm/hr, while the cumulative infiltrations ranged between 4.8 cm to 24 cm. Soil unit 8 recorded the highest infiltration rates of 12 cm/hr and cumulative infiltration of 24 cm, while soil unit 10 had the lowest infiltration of 2.4 cm/hr and cumulative infiltration of 4.8 cm. Soil infiltration capacity was classified as moderate and moderate-rapid. Soil units 7, 8, 9, 13, 14, and 15 required an overhead method for correct water economy and proper utilisation for plants whereas soil units 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 10, 11, and 12 ideally may require a surface irrigation method probably because of the moderate basic infiltration rate. The Hydrologic Soil Groups (HSGs) of the study sites were evaluated as A, B and C. Soil units 1, 2, 4, 7, 8, 11, 12, 14, and 15 fall under group A, and soil units 3, 5, 6, 10, and 13 fall under group B, while soil unit 9 falls under group C, corresponding to well-drained soil texture with low runoff potential, moderately well-drained coarse texture with moderate runoff potential and moderately fine texture with moderate to high runoff potential, respectively. It is suggested that water management under irrigation in the fadama sites of the study area depend largely on the nature and condition of the soil, and that sites with low runoff potential are likely to retain more water during the days compared to moderate and moderate-rapid.
Construction of confidence intervals for the difference of censored zero-inflated gamma distributions
Authors: Guo Hongping , Zhu Yiran , Qian Yuhang , Wu Min
Published: July 2024

This paper studies the problem of constructing confidence intervals (CIs) for the difference between coefficients of variation (CV) of two censored zero-inflated gamma distributions. Firstly, we extend the CI construction method of gamma distribution, based on Fiducial inference, to the context of zero-inflated gamma distributions with censored data. Secondly, we propose a Box-Cox transformation based method to construct CIs for the CV difference of censored zero-inflated gamma distributions. Thirdly, we combine two gamma distribution CI estimates with three binomial distribution CI estimates using the Method of Variance Estimate Recovery (MOVER), and obtain six MOVER combination methods. Furthermore, we conduct Monte Carlo simulations to evaluate the performances of the proposed methods, the results indicate that all CI construction methods achieve satisfactory performances in terms of coverage probability, average length and tail error rates. Finally, we perform real data analysis using 11 years of precipitation data from Zhengzhou and Lhasa.
Repurposing of TV Boxes for a Circular Economy in Smart Cities Applications
Authors: Luz Gustavo P. C. P da , Sato Gabriel Massuyoshi , Gonzalez Luis Fernando Gomez , Borin Juliana Freitag
Published: July 2024

In recent years, large quantities of illegal TV Box equipment have been confiscated in Brazil. According to news released in March 2024, an estimated 2.5 million TV Boxes were stored in the warehouses of the Federal Revenue Service. Typically, this equipment is destroyed, which not only incurs significant costs for the government but also generates substantial e-waste. Meanwhile, the advancement of smart city applications based on the Internet of Things (IoT) and machine learning has driven research in edge computing using hardware-constrained devices. This paper explores the feasibility of repurposing TV Boxes for edge computing in applications involving people counting in images collected by cameras. We developed a testbed consisting of 20 TV boxes to conduct a thorough evaluation of their resilience and carbon footprint compared to commonly used edge computing equipment. Our findings demonstrate that these repurposed devices can perform over five million inferences, outperforming commercially available devices in terms of carbon footprint using Brazilian energy matrix. This study underscores the innovative potential and environmental benefits of repurposing TV Boxes for smart city applications, especially when utilizing lightweight machine learning models.
Alcohol consumption and the risk of rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Lyu Linshuoshuo , Liu Bin , Ying Jiacheng , Qian Yu , Guo Jing , Li Jiayu , Sun Xiaohui , He Zhixing , Ye Ding , Wen Chengping , Mao Yingying
Published: July 2024

Background
Though accumulated evidence has indicated an inverse relationship between alcohol intake and rheumatoid arthritis (RA) risk, it remained uncertain whether such association was causal or biased by confounding. We aimed to explore the dose-response relationship and the potential causality between alcohol consumption and RA risk by using both prospective study and Mendelian randomization (MR).
Methods
We first performed an updated meta-analysis on the association between alcohol consumption and the RA risk in PubMed and Web of Science database. Then we assessed the association of alcohol intake-related phenotypes with RA risk based on UK Biobank. The association was examined using Cox regression, while the potential non-linear relationship was modeled by restricted cubic splines (RCS). Stratification analyses based on sex, age, and ethnicity, as well as a series of sensitivity analyses were further performed. In addition, linkage disequilibrium score regression (LDSC) was used to calculate the heritability and genetic correlation between these traits, and two-sample MR was employed to assess the association of genetically predicted alcohol consumption with the risk of RA.
Results
Findings from the meta-analysis suggested an inverse association between alcohol intake and RA (relative risk (RR): 0.85; 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.78, 0.83). Similarly, in UK Biobank cohort, one standard deviation increases of alcohol intake per day was related to a 6% lower risk of RA (hazard ratio (HR): 0.94; 95% CI: 0.91, 0.97). RCS models revealed a J-shaped dose-response association between alcohol consumption and RA, with moderate intake associated with a reduced risk. However, alcohol use disorder (AUD) was associated with a 30% higher risk of RA (HR: 1.30; 95% CI: 1.08, 1.56). A sex- and age-dependent association of alcohol intake and RA was observed in stratification analysis. Findings from LDSC and MR both suggested AUD as a potential risk factor for RA, while no statistically significant association between alcohol consumption and RA was observed.
Conclusion
Our study revealed a dose- and sex- dependent pattern of alcohol consumption on RA risk. Though a slightly protective effect was observed during a specific range of alcohol consumption, it should not be recommended as a prevention strategy for RA.
Anomalous Behaviour in Structural and Optical Properties of Cr and N co- doped TiO 2 thin films Under Thermally Induced Conditions synthesized by Spin Coating
Authors: Prasad Abhishek , Singh Fouran , Purohit L. P. , Ojha Sunil , Mehra Rohit , Ramola R. C.
Published: July 2024

This study investigates the transformative effects of chromium and nitrogen doping on the structural and optical characteristics of TiO2 thin films. Intriguing results are obtained by analysing XRD patterns, FTIR spectroscopy, RBS, EDS, UV-vis transmission spectra, and bandgap studies. The XRD analysis reveals the development of mixed phases, with notable phase transitions observed upon doping in TiO2 thin films and the occurrence of Ti2O3 peak, suggesting potential advantages such as enhanced conductivity or catalytic activity. FTIR spectroscopy confirms the C-O stretching group at 1102 cm-1 and characteristic peaks in the fingerprint region at 613 cm-1 and 435 cm-1, indicating titanium-oxygen bonds and the incorporation of dopants into the TiO2 lattice. RBS spectra show that the pristine thin films have a thickness of 268 nm, which increases to 270 nm upon doping. UV-Vis transmission spectra unveil alterations in transparency and absorbance, with chromium and nitrogen dopants significantly impacting optical properties. Notably, bandgap measurements highlight the fascinating phenomenon of bandgap narrowing attributed to the substitution of lattice oxygen with nitrogen atoms. The bandgap energy of the Pristine film is 3.25 eV, which decreases to 2.28 eV after increasing chromium doping. The nitrogen-doped 7Cr: TiO2 thin film showed a bandgap energy of 2.81 eV. This study illuminates the complex interplay between doping and TiO2 thin film properties, offering valuable insights for optoelectronic applications and materials science advancements.
BMAL1-HIF2α heterodimers contribute to ccRCC
Authors: Lamia Katja A , Mello Rebecca , Ceballos Diego Gomez , Sandate Colby , Agudelo Daniel , Jouffe Celine , Uhlenhaut Nina , Thoma Nicolas , Simon M.Celeste
Published: July 2024

Circadian disruption enhances cancer risk, and many tumors exhibit disordered circadian gene expression. We show rhythmic gene expression is unexpectedly robust in clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC). Furthermore, the clock gene BMAL1 is higher in ccRCC than in healthy kidneys, unlike in other tumor types. BMAL1 is closely related to ARNT, and we show that BMAL1-HIF2α regulates a subset of HIF2α target genes in ccRCC cells. Depletion of BMAL1 reprograms HIF2α chromatin association and target gene expression and reduces ccRCC growth in culture and in xenografts. Analysis of pre-existing data reveals higher BMAL1 in patient-derived xenografts that are sensitive to growth suppression by a HIF2α antagonist (PT2399). We show that BMAL1-HIF2α is more sensitive than ARNT-HIF2α to suppression by PT2399, and increasing BMAL1 sensitizes 786O cells to growth inhibition by PT2399. Together, these findings indicate that an alternate HIF2α heterodimer containing the circadian partner BMAL1 contributes to HIF2α activity, growth, and sensitivity to HIF2α antagonist drugs in ccRCC cells.
Global human consumption of animal calories stabilizes in the long run
Authors: Fischer Christian , Kipkoech Brian , Ruto Eric
Published: July 2024

Animal-based foods, a traditional source of nutrients, are increasingly called into question owing to human health and environmental concerns. We show that across a simulated period of 200 years the share of animal calories in the total global calorie supply has stagnated over the last forty years. This is inconsistent with Bennett's law, which states that diet shares of meat and other nutrient-dense foods increase when per capita incomes rise. It implies a growing environmental footprint of the global human diet. Using FAOSTAT and World Bank data, our panel regression estimates confirm a weakening link between income and animal calorie consumption as countries develop. This trend is also observed for human trophic levels, a measure of the energy intensity of diets. Overall, we contribute to the food sustainability debate by offering a long-term view of actual animal-source calorie development patterns.
Nucleoporins cooperate with Polycomb silencers to promote transcriptional repression and repair at DNA double strand breaks
Authors: Song* Hongseon , Bae* Yubin , Kim* Sangin , Deascanis* Dante , Lee Yujin , Rona Gergely , Lane Ethan , Lee Seoyeong , Kim Sujung , Pagano Michele , Myung Kyungjae , Kee Younghoon
Published: July 2024

DNA Double-strand breaks (DSBs) are harmful lesions and major sources of genomic instability. Studies have suggested that DSBs induce local transcriptional silencing that consequently promotes genomic stability. Several factors have been proposed to actively participate in this process, including ATM and Polycomb repressive complex 1 (PRC1). Here we found that disrupting PRC1 clustering disrupts DSB-induced gene silencing. Interactome analysis of PHC2, a PRC1 subunit that promotes the formation of the Polycomb body, found several nucleoporins that constitute the Nuclear Pore Complex (NPC). Similar to PHC2, depleting the nucleoporins also disrupted the DSB-induced gene silencing. We found that some of these nucleoporins, such as NUP107 and NUP43, which are members of the Y-complex of NPC, localize to DSB sites. These nucleoporin-enriched DSBs were distant from the nuclear periphery. The presence of nucleoporins and PHC2 at DSB regions were inter-dependent, suggesting that they act cooperatively in the DSB-induced gene silencing. We further found two structural components within NUP107 to be necessary for the transcriptional repression at DSBs: ATM/ATR-mediated phosphorylation at Serine37 residue within the N-terminal disordered tail, and the NUP133-binding surface at the C-terminus. These results provide a new functional interplay among nucleoporins, ATM and the Polycomb proteins in the DSB metabolism, and underscore their emerging roles in genome stability maintenance.

*Hongseon Song, Yubin Bae, Sangin Kim, and Dante Deascanis contributed equally to this work.