bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
To develop a prognostic marker related to nicotinamide metabolism in ovarian cancer based on multiple machine learning
Authors: zheng xiaojiao
Published: August 2024

Nicotinamide metabolism play important roles in the formation and progression of ovarian cancer(OC). This study aimed to develop a prognostic marker related to nicotinamide metabolism in OC based on multiple machine learning. Gene expression profiles were obtained from the TCGA and GEO database. The TCGA dataset was used as a train cohort and GSE19829 was used as a validation cohort. The levels of these feature genes were also confirmed in an independent single-cell dataset GSE147082. A consensus prognostic model was constructed from a combination of 112 machine learning algorithms, including 10 classical ones. The STRING database facilitated the construction of protein-protein interaction networks around hub genes. Survival analysis was performed using the Kaplan-Meier method with the survival R package. Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA) was conducted via the cluster Profiler R package, while mutation patterns were examined with maftools. Immune infiltration and regulatory differences were assessed using the estimate R package. Single-cell datasets underwent quality control and cell-type annotation with Seurat v4.0, and pseudotime trajectory analyses were executed to map cellular development. Our results identified stable prognostic genes associated with OC and developed a risk scoring system that effectively stratifies patients into high- and low-risk groups with significant survival differences (p<0.05). A final prognostic model based on 23 hub genes demonstrated a robust mean concordance index (C-index) of 0.709. Furthermore, we revealed significant disparities in immune checkpoint markers expression between different risk groups, underscoring potential therapeutic implications. Finally, the model was tested on additional cancer types and clinical utility was assessed using calibration and decision curve analysis. Overall, this novel multiple machine learning could develop a prognostic marker, related to Nicotinamide metabolism, which is very promising in clinical promotion.
Engineered Microbial Platform Confers Resistance against Heavy Metals via Phosphomelanin Biosynthesis
Authors: Yan Xuehai , Ren Xiaokang , Zhao Luyang , Zhou Peng , Yuan Chengqian , Xing Ruirui
Published: August 2024

Environmental concerns are increasingly fueling interest in engineered living materials derived from microbial sources. Melanin biosynthesis in microbes, particularly facilitated by recombinant tyrosinase expression, offers sustainable protection for the habitat of microorganisms against severe environmental stressors. However, there exists a vast urgency to optimize these engineered microbial platforms, which will amplify their protective capabilities, integrate multifaceted functions, and thereby expand their utility and effectiveness. In our work, we have genetically engineered microbial platforms capable of endogenously biosynthesizing phosphomelanin, a unique phosphorus-bearing melanin featured by its distinctive phosphate and phosphonate groups. The ability to heterogeneously biosynthesize phosphomelanin endows the microbes with enhanced resistance to heavy metals, thus safeguarding their survival in adverse conditions. Furthermore, we have upgraded these engineered microbes by integrating PET-degrading enzymes, thereby achieving effective integrated management of metallized plastic waste. This engineered microbial platform, with its phosphomelanin biosynthetic capabilities, presents significant opportunities for microbes to engage in bioengineering manufacturing, potentially serving as the next-generation guardians against global ecological challenges.
Study of the influence of the protection arrangement on piezoelectric transducers applied in the electromechanical impedance technique in concrete structures
Authors: Gomes Lucas , Silva Raquel Naiara Fernandes , Motta Leila Aparecida de Castro
Published: August 2024

This work presents an analysis of structural health monitoring using the electromechanical impedance method in conjunction with a finite element model. The objective is to implement and evaluate a protection arrangement for piezoelectric transducers, verifying its influence on damage detection. The technique employs piezoelectric transducers embedded in the structure to collect impedance signatures, where changes in the curve indicate possible damage. The signatures are evaluated using specific metrics that allow detecting the presence of damage characterized by displacements in the signatures. The experiment compares a simulated model with a concrete sample subjected to tests under controlled conditions. The results show the correlation between the model values and those observed in the tests, highlighting the efficiency of the applied metrics.
Knowledge and Attitudes Towards Breastfeeding Among Female Non-Nutrition Students at Sokoine University of Agriculture, Edward Moringe Campus, Morogoro, Tanzania
Authors: Ndeki Douglas , Simon Lukonu
Published: August 2024

Background: Adequate nutrition during early childhood ensures optimal growth and development. Exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) for the first six months of life, as recommended by the World Health Organization and United Nations Children’s Fund, provides unparalleled nutritional benefits.
Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the knowledge, attitudes, and sources of information regarding exclusive breastfeeding among female non-nutrition students at Sokoine University of Agriculture, Edward Moringe Campus, in Morogoro.
Method: A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted from December 1, 2020, to April 31, 2021, among 150 purposively selected female students aged 20-33. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire covering personal details, attitudes, knowledge, and sources of information on exclusive breastfeeding. Analysis was performed using SPSS software version 22
Results: The majority of respondents (48.0%) believed that breastfeeding should continue up to two years. About 50.7% agreed that breastfeeding should be on demand rather than scheduled. A significant portion (24.0%) strongly disagreed with giving pre-lacteal feeds, while 17.3% strongly agreed. Most respondents (31.3%) supported following vaccination schedules such as the polio vaccine. A notable 37.3% strongly disagreed that breastfeeding should be stopped during a child’s diarrheal episodes. However, 67.3% perceived formula feeding as superior to breastfeeding, and 35.5% disagreed that breastfeeding enhances mother-child bonding. Among the participants, 78.7% had heard about exclusive breastfeeding, with 46.7% learning from health professionals and relatives/friends, and 56.0% receiving detailed information on the topic.
Conclusion and Recommendations: The knowledge and attitudes towards exclusive breastfeeding among female university students were generally positive, although some misconceptions persisted. These gaps can be addressed through culturally sensitive, age-appropriate health education sessions and relevant reading materials. Future breastfeeding promotion programs should emphasize these aspects to improve understanding and practices.
Improvement by the drop of water absorption in treated Bambusa vulgaris fibers used in composite materials for building components.
Authors: Dieudonné EBANDA Ebanda , Joseph NKONGHO Anyi , Ekmon MBANGUE Nzengwa , Achille PANDON , Séverin NGUIYA
Published: August 2024

This study aims to investigate the improvement of the hydrophilic behavior of bamboo fibers extracted by the "Improved Hydrophilic Extraction Method" (IHEM) (with 3% soda) and treated by acetylation. A sample of Bambusa vulgaris fibers obtained. Three categories of fibers’s structure were exploded in composite sample, molded in same condition. Each categories of fibers’s structure has composite with treated fibers and other with untreated fibers, and was subjected to a cycle of wetting/drying/wetting test for five days duration under. It resulted that the surface area of the fibers was smoothed by 3.57% and the density was reduced by 70.08%. The elastic properties of the accessible fiber, such as Young's modulus read 14777.75 MPa while the breaking stress yieds 39.21 MPa. Water absorption decreased by 20% to 37% after 48 hours of quenching, despite the temperature variation. The comparison of water saturation mass (DM), moisture mass after drying (MT) and mass variation of the composite substituted in water after soaking (ΔM), showed that the increase in the rate of treated fibers reduces the hydrophilic character of the composite which becomes completely hydrophobic to 15%, and that the damage caused to the composite by the hydrophilic effect also becomes less important.
Comparative study of the Chemical Composition and Antimicrobial Activity of Essential oils obtained From Seeds and Leaves of Star Apple (Chrysophyllum cainito L.)
Authors: Babatunde Oluwatoyin , Yeye Emmanuel , Oladeji Olatunde , Kolade Adejoke , Adefioye Olusolabomi , Mohammed Isiaka
Published: August 2024

In this study, the essential oils of seeds and leaves from Star Apple (Chrysophyllum cainito L) were profiled and screened for their antimicrobial potential. The volatile oils were isolated by means of hydro-distillation process using a Clevenger-type apparatus. The oils were analysed by gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (GC-MS). Antimicrobial activity of the isolated essential oils was investigated by agar well diffusion method against seven bacterial isolates and two fungal isolates. A total of thirty-one chemical constituents were identified in essential oil of leaves with β-ocimene (12.37%), TMTT 1,3,7,11-Tridecatetraene (9.73%), α-farnesene (9.19%) and cyclofenchene (7.16%) as major components. Twenty-eight compounds were characterised in the seeds oil with citral (36.60%), Geranial, (28.50%) and (E)-3,7-Dimethylocta-3,6-dienal (10.82%) as main constituents. The two oils contained beta and alpha ocimene, cyclofenchene and pelargonaldehyde in common. The lowest MIC observed with essential oil of the leaves was 0.781251 mg/mL for Staphylococcus aureus and 1.625 mg/mL for Escherichia coli. The lowest MIC recorded for essential oil of the seeds was 12.5 mg/mL for Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae. Essential oil obtained from leaves exhibited higher antimicrobial and antifungal activities against all tested organisms than essential oil of seeds. The good to moderate antimicrobial results in this study has further justified the ethnomedicinal use of C. cainito in the treatment of inflammation caused by pneumonia and laryngitis microbes.
A structured framework for pediatric endocrine resident rotations: A single center experience
Authors: Zipursky Rachel , Vidmar Alaina P. , Cheung Clement C.
Published: August 2024

Background
Over the past decade, there have been fewer pediatric residents applying to pediatric endocrine fellowship. One possible contributor to this trend is a lack of exposure to pediatric endocrinology outpatient work while in residency. The aim of this narrative review is to describe a single center medical education experience to create a standardized framework for residents rotating through a pediatric endocrine rotation.
Methods
In a multi-stage process, a working group consisting of medical educators developed a pediatric resident framework for subspeciality rotations and implemented it from 2019–2022. Afterwards, the new framework was evaluated.
Results
The conceptualization process and the implementation of the framework together can be represented as a modified PDSA. A standardized subspeciality framework resulted in increased resident satisfaction, faculty satisfaction, and popularity of the pediatric endocrinology selective course, thus exposing more residents to pediatric endocrinology. The process required 75–135 minutes of administrative time per resident (15 minutes of administrator time, 60–120 minutes of faculty time) and 120 minutes of teaching time per resident (medical education faculty team).
Conclusions
This study shows that in a single academic center, restructuring the resident elective in pediatric endocrinology with an eye to customization based on resident interest led to increased resident satisfaction, faculty satisfaction, and increased popularity of the pediatric endocrinology elective course. In an era where overall popularity of pediatric endocrinology is dwindling, but need for specialized expertise is growing, this is a step towards increased resident exposure to the subspecialty.
Harmonizing Assistance: Moderating Visual andTextual Aids in AI-Enhanced Textbook Readingwith IRead
Authors: Zhang Xiaoyu , Dörig Vincent , Cui Peng , Zouhar Vilém , Netland Torbjorn , Sachan Mrinmaya
Published: August 2024

Textbooks continue to be one of primary mediums of learning. Students often need additional support during the process of reading textbooks leading to several research efforts that aim to increase student engagement and provide tailored experiences in textbook reading. However, providing excessive information beyond the textbook can also distract students from the reading task. When enhancing the reading experience, one has to strike a delicate balance between providing sufficient informational support and maintaining students’ focus on textbook reading. Fusing together latest developments in large language models (LLMs), their applications in education and several pedagogical theories, we design a textbook reading guidance mechanism. We introduce IRead, an interactive tool for textbook reading which uses LLMs with visualization and interaction techniques, to enhance students’ reading and learning experiences. IRead incorporates conceptual visualizations that reflect the textbook’s content and features an AI-driven question bot that generates questions and offers hints in response to student reading and interaction history. We evaluate IRead with a between-subject user study and measure the effectiveness of our methodology in supporting the students’ reading experience based on the Bloom’s Taxonomy and the ARCS model. We collect feedback from participants ranging from undergraduate to doctorate students. The results highlight the effectiveness of simple yet intuitive visualizations, such as the concept tree in IRead. We also derive general insights for the development of tools that enhance educational reading experiences.
Real-World Performance of Large Language Models in Emergency Department Chest Pain Triage and the development of MediGuide-14B
Authors: Tang Yi-Da
Published: August 2024

This study evaluated the performance of large language models (LLMs) in diagnosing acute coronary syndrome (ACS) in emergency chest pain triage. We compared two Chinese LLMs, ‘Tongyi Qianwen’ and ‘Lingyi Zhihui,’ with MediGuide-14B and human experts using data from 11,428 patients. MediGuide-14B demonstrated the highest accuracy (87.52%) and specificity (78.63%), comparable to human experts (86.37% accuracy, 89.26% specificity). The study highlighted the potential of LLMs to assist in emergency diagnostics, particularly in resource-limited settings. However, limitations such as potential bias and the need for human oversight were noted. This research underscores the importance of integrating LLMs with clinical expertise for optimal patient care.
Future expansion of alpine forest-grassland ecotone under land-use and climate change
Authors: Marzini Sebastian , Tasser Erich , Wellstein Camilla , Albrich Katharina , Rammer Werner , Mina Marco
Published: August 2024

Context
Across Alpine landscapes, a combination of land-use abandonment and climate change is driving forest expansion and promoting the upward migration of trees on grasslands. Yet, it remains unclear how rapidly the upper forest-grassland ecotone will shift and how tree species composition will change, both in terms of species proportions and along elevational gradients.
Objectives
Our aim is to investigate the future forest expansion in a landscape in the Eastern Alps under potential grassland abandonment, climate change, natural disturbances (wind and bark beetle), and forest management.
Methods
We used the forest landscape model iLand to simulate long-term forest development under different scenarios. We coupled model outputs with a machine learning algorithm to identify potential changes in the forest-grassland ecotone, tracking tree species expansion and quantifying elevation and compositional shifts.
Results
Under a potential abandonment of alpine grasslands, forest will likely expand rapidly within the 21st century regardless climate warming. This because the current upper forest-grassland ecotone is mainly constrained by land use rather than climate. Our simulations also showed that ecotone shifts will be more pronounced on S-facing slopes, while climate change will affect more future tree species composition and forest stocking at higher elevations.
Conclusions
Our outcomes highlight the capacity of forest landscape models to provide useful insights on future dynamics of the upper forest ecotone, integrating not only species migration and climate but also other factors such as disturbances and management. Our results could provide useful information for designing landscape management strategies in rapidly changing Alpine mountain valleys.
Role and Perception of Healthcare Professionals in Referring Cancer Patients to Online Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia
Authors: Zanni Louise , Journiac Jonathan , Savard Josée , Guerdoux Estelle , Paillard-Brunet Guilhem , Fasse Léonor , Provost Jean-Bernard Le , Charles Cécile , Dauchy Sarah , Boinon Diane
Published: August 2024

Purpose
Insomnia represents a major issue in oncology, which can be successfully treated by online Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy for Insomnia, such as the Insomnet program. However, promoting its successful implementation in routine care requires healthcare providers' involvement. This study aimed to explore healthcare professionals' perceptions of this online program.
Methods
This qualitative study was a part of [anonymize for reviewing (AFR)]. It explored, through two focus groups including 19 healthcare professionals of three cancer centers, their perceptions regarding their role in patient referral, as well as the perceived barriers and facilitators in accessing this type of intervention. The content of the focus groups was subjected to a descriptive thematic analysis.
Results
Four major themes were identified: (1) Ambivalent representations of online tools (including Patients convinced by remote intervention, Evolution of representations in relation to the health context, Adapted to sleep disorders, Professionals’ preconceptions of online tools), (2) Barriers to implementation (including Few perceived barriers, Forgetting patients' particularities, Professionals' lack of knowledge, A possible threat to the patient-caregiver relationship, Financial cost), (3) Levers for implementation (including Real benefits for patients, Professionals who feel confident, Preserved patient-caregiver relationship, Institutional innovations to remedy dysfunctions), and (4) Professional involvement in implementation (What they need, What to avoid, What they already do, What they see themselves doing).
Conclusion
Online (healthcare) services were reported to help increase access to healthcare, but that should not replace the relationship between patients and healthcare professionals. All professionals must be informed and trained to refer patients to these programs.
On the increase of the flutter boundary and energy harvesting of subsonic aeroelastic systems using the concept of piezoaeroviscoelasticity.
Authors: de Lima Antonio Marcos G. , Delgado-Filho Marcelo , Silva Alice da , Bouhaddi Noureddine
Published: August 2024

This paper shows the possibility of increasing the energy harvesting and subsonic flutter boundary of aeroelastic systems using viscoelastic materials and shunted piezoceramics, simultaneously. For this purposes, it is used here a two degrees of freedom typical section subjected to an unsteady airflow containing discrete viscoelastic mounts and attached to a resistive piezo-shunted circuit. In the modeling of the piezoaeroviscoelastic problem, the complex modulus approach combined with the concept of shift factor and reduced frequency has been used to represent the frequency- and temperature-dependent behavior of the viscoelastic substructure. To model the unsteady aerodynamic loadings acting on the system, it was assumed the well-known linearized thin airfoil theory. Numerical simulations were performed for some design parameters and subsonic flight conditions to demonstrate the main features of the proposed method and the possibility of increasing the dynamic stability and power generation of the piezoaeroviscoelastic system. In addition, a parametric study has been performed to evaluate the degree of influence of operating temperature and load resistance on the stability and energy harvesting.
Dynamics of small RNAs in a red-fruited wine grape cultivar infected with Grapevine red blotch virus
Authors: Ault Noah , Ren Shuchao , Payne David , Li Yongfang , Sriniva Asha , Zheng Yun , Sunkar Ramanjulu , Naidu Rayapati
Published: August 2024

Background
Red blotch disease, caused by Grapevine red blotch virus (GRBV, genus Grablovirus, family Geminiviridae), negatively impacts vine health, fruit yield, and quality, leading to substantial economic losses to growers. While recent studies have enhanced our understanding of the epidemiology of GRBV and its effects, little is known about the molecular basis of the host-virus interactions. Since small RNAs (sRNAs) are known to play a central role in host-virus interactions, this study was undertaken to investigate sRNA dynamics in leaves and berries at two phenological stages (asymptomatic pre- and symptomatic post-veraison) of GRBV-infected grapevines (Vitis vinifera cv. Merlot).
Results
Among the 140 microRNAs (miRNAs) detected, 41 isoforms belonging to 18 miRNA families exhibited significant differential expression in response to GRBV infection. Furthermore, 50 miRNAs showed differential expression in samples from pre- and post-veraison stages. A total of 58 conserved and 41 novel targets for known V. vinifera miRNAs were validated using degradome sequencing data from leaf samples of pre- and post-veraison stages. Viroid-derived small-interfering RNAs (vdsiRNAs) specific to Grapevine yellow-speckle viroid-1 and Hop stunt viroid were also identified in all samples, while virus-derived siRNAs (vsiRNAs) specific to GRBV were present only in GRBV-positive samples. The vsiRNAs predominantly ranged from 19 to 24 nucleotides (nt), with the 21nt size being the most abundant. Mapping vsiRNAs across the GRBV genome revealed an uneven distribution, with vsiRNA-generating hotspots predominantly located in the V3 ORF. Of the 83 most abundant vsiRNAs, targets within the grapevine transcriptome were identified for eight of them. Significantly higher levels of HSVd RNAs were observed in GRBV-positive samples compared to GRBV-negative samples, suggesting a potential synergistic interaction between the two pathogens.
Conclusions
The predominance of 21-nt long vsiRNAs, as well as the predominance of those mapping to the V3 ORF compared to other ORFs, provide insight into both the biogenesis and methods of action of GRBV vsiRNAs. Target validations of vsiRNAs and differentially expressed miRNAs are indicative of pathways and mechanisms which may lead to the expression of Grapevine red blotch disease symptoms. This research serves as a foundation for future studies on the molecular interactions in this plant-geminivirus pathosystem.
Comparative Study of Stigma and Discrimination in Vaccinated and Non-Vaccinated COVID-19 Survivors in Bangladesh
Authors: Rashid Tamanna , Arefin Shamsul , Bhattacharjee Mowsume , Islam Md. Ashraful
Published: August 2024

Historically, pandemics have often resulted in stigma and discrimination against people affected. Despite some studies outlining the stigmatized experiences of COVID-19 survivors in Bangladesh, there is a notable lack of comparative research into the lived experiences of survivors across different pandemic phases. This study is intended to fill this gap by thoroughly investigating the stigmatized experiences of both vaccinated and non-vaccinated COVID-19 survivors in Bangladesh. Using a qualitative comparative case study approach, we interviewed 22 COVID-19 survivors (13 non-vaccinated and 9 vaccinated) in Bangladesh during two pandemic periods (July 26–August 12, 2020, and October 10, 2022–April 10, 2023). Recruitment was made by adopting a convenient sampling technique through social media platforms and personal networks. Due to the pandemic, interviews were conducted primarily via telephone and online, such as Zoom. All interviews were then thoroughly transcribed and subjected to an in-depth thematic analysis. The findings highlight crucial factors that contribute to stigma and discrimination against COVID-19 survivors, including fear of death, infection, disease control measures (such as lockdown, public announcements, and placing red flags on victims' houses), and personal experiences with COVID-19 testing. Notably, non-vaccinated participants reported a variety of experiences associated with COVID-19 stigma and discrimination that differed from those of their vaccinated peers. The study also found that social support and normalized perceptions of COVID-19 played important roles in reducing stigma and discrimination against survivors. As a result, this study is significant for healthcare workers and policymakers in Bangladesh in developing effective pandemic management and control strategies.
Multi-Physics Analysis of Electromagnetic, Vibration, and Temperature Fields for Short-Circuit Faults in GHSPMG
Authors: Qiu Hongbo , Zhang Huaiyuan , li zexing , Yang Cunxiang
Published: August 2024

The Gramme-Ring -winding high-speed permanent magnet generators (GHSPMG) are the most attractive candidates for use as the emergency power supply due to its inherent high efficiency and high power density. Studying the inter-turn short circuit (ITSC)multi-physics characteristics of GHSPMG is of great significance to improving fault tolerance and the reliability of emergency power supply. The existing literature only studies the ITSC fault of stacked winding motor, ignoring the ITSC fault characteristics of the GHSPMG. This paper proposes an analytical-finite element coupling method suitable for GHSPMG motors, and studies the electromagnetic, temperature, and vibration multi-physical fields after GHSPMG failure. Firstly, based on the special structure of the GHSPMG, an electromagnetic model considering the ITSC fault is established, and the impact of the ITSC fault on the air gap magnetic field distribution characteristics is analyzed. Secondly, based on Maxwell tensor method, the influence of post-fault short-circuit circulating current on electromagnetic vibration characteristics is studied. Then, a fluid-structure coupling model is established to compare the internal temperature characteristics between healthy and faulty states. The results show that the fault impact range of the GHSPMG is quite different from that of the stacked winding motor, and when an ITSC fault occurs in the winding, the loop current only affects the multi-physics characteristics of a single fault slot of GHSPMG instead of two slots of stacked winding motor. Finally, an experimental platform is built to verify the effectiveness of the theoretical analysis.
Enhancing synthesis wastewater treatment efficiency and anaerobic sludge characteristics through integration of electrocoagulation process with up-flow anaerobic sludge blanket reactor
Authors: Derakhshesh Saeed , Sharghi Elham Abdollhzadeh , Bonakdarpour Babak
Published: August 2024

The present study investigated effects of coupling electrocoagulation (EC) process with an anaerobic digestion bioreactor, namely up-flow anaerobic sludge blanket (UASB), for the synthetic wastewater treatment. The EC-UASB mode of operation consisted of one anode and two cathodes subjected to an intermittent electrical current (10 minutes ON/30 minutes OFF) with current density of 1.5 mA/cm2. In light of this integration, the concentration of mixed liquor suspended solids and mixed liquor volatile suspended solids within anaerobic granular sludge (AGS) increased by 20 ± 1.4% and 12.8 ± 0.8%, respectively. The results of sludge volume index, loosely and tightly bound extracellular polymeric substances and their constituents (protein and carbohydrate) revealed that through this integration the quality of AGS has been improved. Furthermore, results of scanning electron microscopy and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy showed alteration in the morphology and functional groups of AGS, respectively. Additionally, this combination has demonstrated promising results in terms of performance improvement by increasing the removal efficiency of total dissolved solids by 12.1 ± 0.3% and reducing the ionic pollution in treated wastewater. However, economic analysis indicated that the optimization of operating conditions is a prerequisite of a viable economic process.
Addressing gaps in healthcare providers’ knowledge, attitudes, and practices to establish a sustainable model for integrated HIV- hypertension care in Uganda
Authors: Kiggundu John Baptist , Semitala Fred C. , Ayebare Florence , Kiwala Christine , Senfuma Joel , Mutungi Gerald , Ssinabulya Isaac , Spiegelman Donna , Kayima James , Muddu Martin , Schwartz Jeremy I. , Katahoire Anne R. , Longenecker Chris T.
Published: August 2024

Background
Despite the available guidelines to integrate HIV and hypertension (HTN) care in Uganda, access to quality HTN care is still limited to a few tertiary HIV clinics. We explored the current state of HTN care in HIV settings, understand healthcare providers’ (HCP) knowledge, attitudes and practices regarding HTN care, as well as the perceptions of HCPs, healthcare managers and policymakers about integrated HIV-HTN care. The goal was to use this formative research to inform the design of a sustainable, robust model for integrating HIV-HTN care in primary health care (PHC) HIV clinics in urban and peri-urban areas of Uganda
Methods
We conducted a parallel convergent mixed methods study at ten HIV clinics in Kampala and Wakiso districts. We consecutively surveyed 89 HCPs involved in the provision of routine HIV care to assess their knowledge, attitudes and practices towards HTN care. We purposively selected 40 HCPs and 6 healthcare managers to participate in semi-structured key informant interviews (KII). Interviews were audio recorded and later transcribed. Through an iterative process, the data was deductively coded and the final codes were mapped onto the domains of the updated Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR). Quantitative data was analysed in Stata 14. Categorical data were summarized using proportions and frequencies, while median and interquartile ranges were used for continuous data. The data was stratified by district.
Results
Between June 2021 and November 2021, 89 HCPs (45-Kampala, 44-Wakiso) median age of 35 (IQR, 29–45) years, and 62% of them were female participated in the survey. HCPs reported no in-service training on HTN, had insufficient knowledge on HTN, limited access to simplified protocols for the treatment of HTN, and reported varying levels of HIV-HTN integration across the ten clinics. HCPs reported a lack of sufficient numbers of functional blood pressure (BP) devices, anti-hypertensive medicines, lack of reporting tools and feedback regarding HTN care metrics as the major hindrances to provision of integrated HIV-HTN care. Despite these hindrances, HCP expressed willingness to integrate HIV-HTN care to reduce client waiting time, costs, and HCP workload.
Conclusions
This formative assessment identified gaps in current HTN care in HIV clinics in urban and peri-urban Uganda. This provided a context to inform the design of a sustainable, robust and sustainable model for integrating HTN and HIV-HTN care in PHC HIV clinics in urban and peri-urban areas of Uganda.
Enhancing DeFi Consensus: Scaling Ethereum for Performance
Authors: Kumari Kimmi , M Mrunalini
Published: August 2024

Decentralised finance (DeFi) has quickly gained pace in the Ethereum ecosystem, revolutionising traditional financial services thanks to its decentralised, permissionless nature. However, as DeFi applications expand, Ethereum's scaling restrictions become more obvious, limiting its capacity to meet the growing need for high transaction throughput and low latency. In response to this critical dilemma, this study presents a thorough investigation of novel consensus methods designed expressly for the unique needs of DeFi applications. By investigating the design and testing of novel consensus algorithms, as well as the refining of current ones, the study significantly improve Ethereum's scalability while adhering to its fundamental ideals of decentralisation and security. This research aims to address the scalability bottlenecks of current DeFi platforms while also laying the groundwork for Ethereum to evolve into a robust, high-performance infrastructure capable of powering the next wave of decentralised finance innovation.
Impact of Asymptomatic Bacterial Genital Tract Infections on the Implantation Success in Women Undergoing Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI)
Authors: Elmongui Naglaa Galal , Hammouda Abdelfattah , Orief Yasser Ibrahim , Elsheredy Amel , Elmongui Ehab , Fekry Marwa
Published: August 2024

Background
Assisted reproduction techniques (ART), such as intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), have gained widespread use globally. Given the expenses associated with these procedures, physicians are continuously working to enhance pregnancy rates and increase the chances of successful outcomes for patients. However, genital infections pose a significant challenge in this field. Infections can disrupt the reproductive process and negatively impact the success of ART. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the impact of bacterial genital tract infections on the implantation success in asymptomatic women undergoing ICSI through identifying the bacterial genital microorganisms at the time of the embryo transfer and investigating whether the presence of these genital microorganisms alters the outcome of ICSI.
Methods
A total of 220 infertile women aged from 23 to 38 years at the time of the embryo transfer during IVF- ICSI were enrolled in the study. They had no clinical symptoms suggestive of vaginitis or cervicitis. Both vaginal and endocervical swabs were collected from each participant. Standard bacteriological culture methods were employed to detect and identify potential genital pathogens. Real-time PCR was used to specifically detect and identify Ureaplasma urealyticum and Mycoplasma hominis in the collected samples. Two weeks after the embryo transfer, a pregnancy test was conducted to identify the ICSI outcome.
Results
The infection rate was lower in the ICSI positive group (82.1%) compared to the ICSI negative group (90.7%), but this difference was not statistically significant. The Lactobacilli spp. was more prevalent in the ICSI positive group (43.3%) than the ICSI negative group (37.2%). The most prevalent pathogenic bacterial organisms were M. hominis, U. urealyticum, Klebsiella, Enterococci spp and E coli. Three organisms were associated with the least ICSI success rates (Enterococci spp. and/or M. hominis and/or U. urealyticum). Infection with Enterococci spp. and/or U. urealyticum was significantly associated with 2.79 times the likelihood of ICSI failure in non-infected participants, also combined infection with Enterococci spp. and/or M. hominis and/or U. urealyticum showed 2.6 times higher risk of ICSI failure.
Conclusion
The results demonstrated the association of definite bacterial pathogens with reduced levels of vaginal lactobacilli. The presence of E. faecalis and/or U. urealyticum and/or M. hominis in genital samples of infertile women was predictive for a negative outcome of ICSI.
Recurrent Orbital Apex Syndrome Presenting with Rapid Vision Loss and Ophthalmoplegia; a Case Report
Authors: Sisirkumar Jyothi Vettiyattusserril , John Manuel , Joseph Jithin Thekkelkuthiyathottil
Published: August 2024

Background.
Orbital Apex Syndrome (OAS) is a rare and potentially debilitating condition that causes sudden, painful vision loss. Despite its diverse causes, prompt diagnosis and early intervention are crucial for restoring vision and preventing long-term damage. This report presents a unique case of recurrent OAS, highlighting the importance of timely treatment and careful management.
Case presentation.
A 55-year-old woman presented with sudden, painful vision loss in her right eye, accompanied by ptosis and ophthalmoplegia, similar to a presentation she had experienced five years ago. Clinical examination revealed reduced visual acuity and painful restriction of right eye movements, while diagnostic tests showed a mildly bulky right optic nerve in the optic canal on MRI and prolonged P100 latency in the right eye on VEP. Based on these findings, an Orbital Apex Syndrome (OAS) diagnosis was made. She was treated with intravenous steroids and supportive care. Her vision was restored to normal, and her ptosis and painful eye movements were resolved. The patient was discharged with a tapering dose of oral steroids and remained symptom-free at follow-up.
Conclusion.
This case report highlights the importance of prompt diagnosis and treatment of Orbital Apex Syndrome (OAS), as timely intervention can significantly impact patient outcomes. The patient's presentation and response to treatment suggest that her OAS was likely caused by inflammatory factors, underscoring the need for swift and targeted management to prevent long-term vision loss and other complications.
Keying into Cognition: Temporal Smoothing of Smartphone Typing Behaviors for Passive Assessment of Processing Speed and Executive Function in Individuals with Mood Disorders
Authors: Ross Mindy K. , Tulabandhula Theja , Nguyen Theresa M. , Ning Emma , Kabir Sarah , Cladek Andrea T. , Barve Amruta , Kennelly Ellyn , Hussain Faraz , Duffecy Jennifer , Langenecker Scott A. , Zulueta John , Demos Alexander P. , Ajilore Olusola A. , Leow Alex D.
Published: August 2024

Introduction
: Cognitive deficits commonly affect everyday life for individuals with mood disorders, even between mood episodes. Monitoring of these symptoms can pose several challenges due to the limitations of current methods, prompting the need for enhanced modalities to unobtrusively and objectively measure cognitive function and its fluctuations in individuals. This study explored the feasibility of passively assessing processing speed and executive function, traditionally measured by the trail-making test part B (TMT-B), using smartphone keyboard typing behaviors and assessed how diurnal patterns may impact cognitive function.
Methods
Through a novel method of temporal smoothing of smartphone typing behaviors via graph-regularized singular value decomposition, we engineered features to capture typing regularity as a proxy for diurnal patterns and sleep. These features were added to machine learning models constructed to predict TMT-B performance and evaluated for improvement in model performance.
Results
Of the models tested, a random forest model built with the addition of typing regularity features performed the best with the lowest RMSE and MAE of 0.769 and 0.644, respectively. Our findings suggest that aspects of individuals’ cognitive function, specifically processing speed and executive function, can be estimated through their smartphone typing behaviors without the need for clinical or demographic input, and these estimates are improved with additional information capturing diurnal patterns and estimated sleep.
Conclusion
This objective approach, passively administered in-the-wild, has the potential to supplement current methods of cognitive assessment and provide a more detailed report of cognitive fluctuations and the influence of diurnal patterns on cognitive function in individuals with mood disorders.
Improvements in blood and fitness tracker biomarkers in a longitudinal real-world cohort of digital health platform users
Authors: Schneider Nimisha , Fabian Paul , Cawley Michelle , Nogal Bartek , Blander Gil , Deehan Renee
Published: August 2024

Digital health technologies offer new opportunities for personalized health management and disease prevention. We examined the use of a digital health platform (DHP) in a retrospective, long-term longitudinal study of over 20,000 users. The DHP evaluates a user’s individual biological profile, consisting of blood biomarkers, polygenic risk scores (PGS), and fitness tracker data, and provides personalized lifestyle interventions based on knowledge about nutrition, supplement, exercise and recovery collected from over 7,000 clinical studies. Here, we show improvement in suboptimal levels of key blood biomarkers that are sustained or increased in the long-term with DHP use. We additionally show correlation of biomarker improvement with specific sleep and activity patterns in users. Lastly, we find significant correlations between polygenic risk and both baseline levels and longitudinal change in biomarkers, including low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-c), suggesting that genetic predisposition for a negative trait (e.g., elevated LDL-c) could make it more difficult to improve that trait. This longitudinal, integrated biomarker dataset highlights the potential of digital health tools in fostering improvements in health-related biomarkers through personalized data analytics and targeted behavioral interventions.
Neonatal Leukemia: A Case report of a rare disease with an atypical presentation
Authors: Gebrehana Alazar Wogayehu , Dereje Wondwosen Mengist , Kasawudeg Nestanet Gete , Abebe Bewketu , maru Gebremariam , Awoke Ephrem
Published: August 2024

Background Even though Leukemia is one of the commonest causes of childhood cancer its occurrence in the newborn period is very uncommon, specially when presenting with non-specific symptoms. Case Presentation A 10 days old female Ethiopian infant was referred from a tertiary hospital to the Neonatal intensive care unit of Gondar university comprehensive specialized hospital after they found a markedly elevated leukocyte count while working her up for early onset neonatal sepsis as she was experiencing persistent vomiting since the first day of delivery. Physical examination was only notable for palpable spleen 3cm below the left costal margin. Further evaluation with peripheral morphology and bone marrow aspiration revealed numerous blast cells and a diagnosis of acute lymphoblastic leukemia. Conclusion Neonatal leukemia, a rare disease in newborns, may present with unusual symptoms. It should be considered among the differential diagnosis when accompanied by the presence of abnormalities in blood counts and other suggestive features.
Diversity and Distribution of Biosynthetic Gene Clusters in the Halophilic Bacteria
Authors: Kumar Amit , Nivetha R
Published: August 2024

Halophilic bacteria have emerged as a promising source of bioactive compounds with potential therapeutic and biotechnological applications. In the present study, we conducted an in-silico analysis to investigate biosynthetic gene clusters (BGCs) of halophilic bacteria for which genomes are available in the public database. In the Halodom database, 670 halophilic bacterial genomes were identified. The genomic data were available for 454 of them. We used the antiSMASH database to identify potential BGCs. The presence of BGCs in 447 bacterial species was revealed, ranging from 1 to 44 per genome. More than 400 species showed the presence of 2 or more BGCs in their genome. Common BGCs were ectoine, terpene, betalactone, Type III polyketide synthases, and ribosomally synthesized and post-translationally modified peptides (RiPPs). We also observed a moderate positive correlation (R2 = 0.40) between genome size and the number of BGCs in the genome. A diverse range of BGCs were found across different bacterial clades. However, the phylogenetic analysis revealed that certain clades such as the phylum Actinomycetota and subclades formed by the members of Cyanobacteriota, Myxococcota and Pseudomonadota were particularly rich in the multiple BGCs. The study highlights the potential of halophilic bacteria for bioactivity production.
A Comparative Study of Cancer Burden Among Males Aged 35 to 75 years in Ghana: Evidence from GLOBOCAN 2022
Authors: Agyemang Emmanuel Ababio , Amaning Patrick Kwaa , Lameck Tess , Agbor Divine Arrey , Agyemang Esther Owusu , Gmanyami Jonathan Mawutor , Djanie Ashie
Published: August 2024

Background
Cancer is a leading cause of death globally ranking second behind cardiovascular diseases as the all-time leading cause of death in the world. In Ghana, there was an increased rise in cancer cases from 24,009 in 2020 to 27,385 in 2022. The total number of deaths due to cancer in 2020 in Ghana was 15,802, which rose to a total mortality of 17,944. Liver cancer is the most common form of cancer among Ghanaian males, which is followed by prostate cancer. However, among Ghanaian men aged 55+ years, prostate cancer is the leading cancer incidence.
Objective
The study aimed to examine the cancer burden among Ghanaian males aged 35 to 75+ years using the Global Cancer Observatory (GLOBOCAN) 2022 cancer estimates.
Materials and Methods
This comparative descriptive design examined the cancer burden among Ghanaian men aged 35 to 75 years using the GLOBOCAN 2022 database. The corresponding population consisted of Ghanaian males stratified into four groups. The incidence and mortality cases as well as the age-standardized incidence and mortality ratios on the various forms of cancer among Ghanaian males aged 35 to 75+ years were obtained from the GLOBOCAN 2022 cancer estimates.
Results
A total of 11,398 cancer cases were recorded in 2022 among Ghanaian males. Liver cancer constituted 23.3% of the total cancer cases, and the incidence of prostate cancer in Ghana was 2,395 (21.0%). The leading age-specific incidence and mortality rate of cancer among Ghanaian males aged 35 to 44 years was liver cancer disease, with age-standardized incidence of 35 per 100,000. Even though, prostate cancer was the highest cancer incidence among men aged 55 to 64 years in Ghana, liver cancer was observed to have the most mortality cases with an age-standardized mortality ratio of 50 per 100,000.
Conclusion
The leading cause of cancer incidence among Ghanaian males was liver cancer, however, prostate cancer was most incident among men aged above 54 years. Lifestyle changes, infiltration of national tobacco and alcoholic companies, late detection and screening, lack of knowledge and awareness, and limited health system are challenges faced with the prevention and control of cancer cases among Ghanaian males