bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Intranasal Application of Diluted Saline Alleviates Ischemic Brain Injury in Association with Suppression of Vasopressin Neurons
Authors: Hou Chunmei , Chen Guichuan , Li Di , Wang Xiaoran , Liu Xiaoyu , Cui Dan , Jiang Yunhao , Liu Yang , Wang Ping , Wang Yu-Feng , Meng Dexin , Jia Shuwei
Published: September 2024

Introduction: Cerebral swelling and brain injury in ischemic stroke are closely related to increased vasopressin (VP) secretion. How to alleviate ischemic brain injury by suppressing VP hypersecretion through simply available approaches remains to be established. Methods: Using a rat model of middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO), testing effects of the intranasal application of low concentration saline-0.09% NaCl (IAL) on brain damage, VP neuronal activity, synaptic inputs, astrocytic plasticity, and olfactory bulb (OB) activity in immunohistochemistry, patch-clamp recording, Western blotting, and co-immunoprecipitation. Results: IAL reduced MCAO-evoked neurological disorders, brain swelling, injury and loss of neurons, increase in c-Fos expression, and excitation of supraoptic VP neurons. The effects of IAL on VP neurons were associated with its suppression of MCAO-evoked increase in the frequency of excitatory synaptic inputs and decrease in the expression of glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) filaments around VP neurons. MCAO and IAL also caused similar but weaker reactions in putative oxytocin neurons. In the OB, MCAO increased the firing rate of mitral cells on the MCAO side, which was reduced by IAL. A direct hypotonic challenge of OB slices increased the expression of glutamine synthetase and GFAP filaments in the glomerular bodies while reducing the firing rate of mitral cells. Blocking aquaporin 4 activity in the supraoptic and paraventricular nuclei on the MCAO side reduced MCAO-evoked VP increase and brain damage. Conclusion: IAL reduces ischemic stroke-evoked brain injury in association with suppression of VP neuronal activity through reducing excitatory synaptic inputs and astrocytic process retraction, which likely result from reducing mitral cell activation in ischemic side.
The Feasibility and Validity of Sarcopenia Assessment Using Standard of Care Stroke Imaging
Authors: Knight Katrina , Finnegan Niall , Rafter Aisling , Forbes Daniel , Black Douglas , Quinn Terry
Published: September 2024

Introduction: Sarcopenia, an age-related syndrome defined by low muscularity, loss of muscle strength, and performance, is increasingly recognized as a potential contributor to disability following acute stroke. It is challenging to assess functionally in the acute post-stroke setting. Radiological assessment of skeletal musculature using standard of care CT neck imaging has recently been described. We sought to determine its feasibility and explore associations between CT-defined sarcopenia, validated frailty and functional indices and outcome at 18 months. Methods: Imaging and clinical data from a prospective cohort study were used. Frailty and functional indices were collected, including the NIH Stroke Scale, Barthel Index for Activities of Daily Living, Fried frailty phenotype, Lawton Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADL) Scale, the Frail Non-Disabled (FiND) Questionnaire and pre-stroke modified Rankin Scale. Single transverse slices of neck CT angiograms obtained at the time of acute stroke diagnosis were assessed for skeletal muscle area using ImageJ software; a skeletal muscle index (SMI) was calculated. The relationship between sarcopenia, frailty and functional indices and death or disability at 18 months was assessed using binary logistic regression. Results: Of 86 potentially eligible patients, 73 were included. It was possible to perform skeletal muscle analysis on the CT scans of all included patients. SMI and functional or frailty indices were not closely correlated. SMI alone was independently related to death or disability at 18 months. The addition of SMI to the abbreviated FiND score appeared to strengthen its associations and prognostic value. Conclusion: This study demonstrates initial feasibility of CT-based skeletal muscle assessment in patients with acute stroke. The relationships with functional and frailty measures as well as short term outcomes including the ability to execute activities of daily living are required to be explored and validated in a larger, external cohort.
Esophageal Varices as an Independent Predictor of Fatal Outcomes after Balloon-Occluded Retrograde Transvenous Obliteration in Patients with Hepatic Encephalopathy
Authors: Iwasaki Shuichiro , Uojima Haruki , Sakita Shinya , Masuda Sakue , Kubota Kousuke , Fujikawa Tomoaki , Okubo Tomomi , Setsu Toru , Itokawa Norio , Furuichi Yoshihiro , Arase Yoshitaka , Tukiyama Toshiki , Fujii Kaoru , Hidaka Hisashi , Atsukawa Masanori , Kagawa Tatehiro , Kako Makoto , Terai Shuji , Kusano Chika
Published: September 2024

Introduction: The objective of this study was to evaluate esophageal varices (EVs) as predictors of poor prognosis with low tolerability after balloon-occluded retrograde transvenous obliteration (BRTO) in patients with overt hepatic encephalopathy (HE). Methods: This study retrospectively enrolled 107 patients who underwent BRTO for uncontrollable overt HE. The enrolled patients were divided into two groups based on the presence of EVs using propensity matching. The present study assessed the technical success rate and safety of BRTO in both the groups. Further, the event-free survival, HE-free survival, and the overall survival (OS) were compared between the two groups. Event-free survival was defined as the time period during which the patients did not developed complications related to portal hypertension, including EVs, hepatic ascites, and portal vein thrombosis. Results: After propensity matching, the EV and non-EV groups had 37 and 36 patients, respectively. Only 1 patient experienced an unsuccessful procedure in the EV group. Procedure-related adverse events in the EV group and non-EV group occurred in 11 and 7 patients, respectively (p = 0.417). The event-free survival after BRTO in the EV and non-EV group were 1,283 (95% CI: 798–1,767) days and 2,257 (1,722–2,792) days, respectively. Event-free survival was significantly worse in the EV group than in the non-EV group (p = 0.014). Furthermore, the EV group experienced worse OS than the non-EV group (p = 0.001 and p < 0.001, respectively). Conclusions: The presence of EVs could potentially be associated with a higher risk of adverse outcomes or mortality after BRTO treatment in individuals with HE.
Proposal for the design of studies of intramammary antimicrobials to be conducted in Brazil for registration with the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock
Authors: Kindlein Giselle , Vasconcelos Carla Gasparotto Chande , Lousana Greyce Balthazar , Brandão Humberto de Mello , Ávila Isabela Maria Alves de , Zambelli Luciana Sekito de Freitas , Ferrante Marcos , Santos Marcos Veiga dos , Gotti Tatiana , Gomes Viviani , Górniak Silvana Lima
Published: September 2024

Before being made available to the Brazilian market, all veterinary medicines must be registered with the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock after their efficacy, safety, and quality have been proven through clinical studies and scientific literature. Depending on the product class, the studies required by the regulatory authority must be carried out per Brazilian regulations and international reference guides. Some international organizations pursue the harmonization of these requirements, aiming at the mutual acceptance of studies conducted in different regions to facilitate international trade and reduce the use of animals in clinical research. Mastitis is one of the most prevalent and costly diseases in dairy cows, and it is associated with negative impacts on milk production and quality, cow welfare, and the profitability of the dairy industry. Normative Instruction No. 26/2009 determines a few rules for conducting studies for registering intramammary antimicrobials for cows with mastitis. However, the regulated sector and researchers report difficulties in following the recommendations of specific guidelines, which complement this regulation due to the peculiarities of Brazil’s production systems. This review article aims to provide subsidies and orientations that scientifically support the conduction and critical analysis of clinical studies proving the efficacy of intramammary products for treating clinical and subclinical mastitis in cows. Considering the need for scientific rigor in the studies, the recommendations available in international guidelines, and the need to adapt the protocols to the current situation of veterinary clinical research in Brazil, this document is intended to contribute to the internal harmonization of experimental protocols that support both the regulated sector and the regulatory authority.
Duas telas, dois tempos: a simetria da montagem paralela na racialização do território cinematográfico em O Caseiro (2016)
Authors: Ribeiro Luís Henrique Marques
Published: September 2024

A montagem é uma técnica de filmagem essencial na imagem em movimento, sendo descrita como a grande descoberta do cinema. Da simplicidade de seu significado — criar relações entre imagens, que podem ser de naturezas muito distintas ou semelhantes, a partir de uma medida contínua de espaçotempo — resulta em arenas de disputa de poder relacionadas ao pensamento fundacional sobre a realidade social brasileira. Assim, discute-se neste artigo o uso da simetria da montagem no filme O Caseiro (2016), de Jonathas de Andrade, como elemento introdutório para derivações da racialização do território cinematográfico a partir de um argumento recorrente (e estanque) na história do cinema brasileiro: a harmonia racial de Gilberto Freyre.
A sedução elaborada da nostalgia: revisitando o “passado dourado” em Mad Men
Authors: Gozzi Giancarlo Casellato
Published: September 2024

Este artigo se debruça sobre a relação entre História e trama que entra em cena na série Mad Men (Matthew Weiner, AMC, 2007-15) a partir de referências culturais e históricas da década de 1960, período em que se passa sua diegese. Inicialmente investigando como o período histórico é temporalmente estruturado ao longo das temporadas da série, irei posteriormente analisar os usos de músicas de época em seus episódios, destacando como a série quer se posicionar frente à memória cultural daquela década, trabalhar com ela e se legitimar por meio daquilo que cita em cena. Por fim, essa análise permitirá interpretar melhor o projeto crítico de Mad Men e a forma como a série opera uma visão nostálgica sobre o passado.
Cardiomyopathy‐Associated Chronic Heart Failure in Infants Aged <1 Year: A Prospective Observational Cohort Over 5 Years in Northern China
Authors: Ding Wenhong , Wang Benzhen , Hong Jeff , Lu Lingeng , Xiao Yanyan , Shan Guangsong , Myers Connor , Yu Qing , Spurney Christopher , Li Zipu , Han Ling
Published: September 2024

Background

There have been few large‐scale studies on the outcomes of cardiomyopathy‐associated heart failure (HF) in infants aged <1 year. This study aimed to assess longitudinal echocardiographic outcomes of infants with HF secondary to cardiomyopathy who survived for >1 year.

Methods and Results

A prospective observational study following 327 infant patients up to 5 years in 2 large pediatric heart centers in Northern China between January 2010 and December 2018. A total of 236 (72.2%) patients had reduced left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) (HF with reduced ejection fraction group; LVEF <40%), 91 (27.8%) patients had midrange LVEF (HF with midrange ejection fraction group; LVEF ≥40% but <55%). LVEF improved significantly within the first year and remained stable in years 2 through 5 for both groups. The HF with midrange ejection fraction group had a higher rate of LVEF normalization (hazard ratio, 1.65;
P
<0.001). Baseline LVEF ≥40%, baseline left ventricular end‐diastolic diameter
Z
score <7.8, the absence of left bundle‐branch block, and the absence of β‐blocker use were 4 independent favorable predictors for future LVEF normalization. A total of 62.4% of enrolled patients were diagnosed with left ventricular noncompaction. No significant difference in LVEF normalization was found among the different types of cardiomyopathy studied.

Conclusions

A significant number of infants with cardiomyopathy who survived >1 year were found to improve with medical therapies during the first year of diagnosis. Poorer outcomes were associated with decreased LVEF and increased heart size at diagnosis baseline, the presence of left bundle‐branch block and use of β blockers. The Northern Chinese pediatric population may have a high proportion of left ventricular noncompaction.
Associations of Everyday Discrimination With Insomnia and Short Sleep Duration Among Older Women
Authors: Johnson Dayna A. , Ward Laura , Ortiz Laura Bosque , Butler Jonathan , Slopen Natalie , Redline Susan , Buring Julie E. , Williams David R. , Albert Michelle A.
Published: September 2024

Background

Discrimination may contribute to sleep health disparities among women, yet limited research has investigated the association between discrimination and insomnia with short sleep.

Methods and Results

Among a racially and ethnically diverse sample of women (N=25 920; mean age, 72.2±6.1 years), we investigated the relationship of discrimination with insomnia symptoms and sleep duration. Poisson models with robust variance were fit to examine discrimination with insomnia, sleep duration (short <7 hours or long >9 hours versus recommended 7–9 hours), and insomnia short sleep phenotype adjusted for covariates. Insomnia symptoms, short and long sleep, and high discrimination were reported by 53%, 11%, 15%, and 40% of women, respectively. Women reporting high versus low discrimination were more likely to report insomnia, short sleep, and insomnia short sleep phenotype (insomnia: adjusted prevalence ratio, 1.15 [95% CI, 1.13–1.18]; short sleep: adjusted prevalence ratio, 1.24 [95% CI, 1.16–1.34]; insomnia short sleep phenotype: adjusted prevalence ratio, 1.45 [95% CI, 1.31–1.61]). In exploratory analyses, the association between discrimination and insomnia symptoms was present among Asian and White women, whereas the association between discrimination and sleep duration was among Hispanic (long sleep) and White (short sleep) women. Further, the association between discrimination and insomnia symptoms was more pronounced among those with less than a bachelor's degree, whereas women with a bachelor's degree or higher were less vulnerable to the association between discrimination and long sleep.

Conclusions

Discrimination was associated with insomnia and short sleep, a more severe phenotype for adverse cardiovascular health. Discrimination may be a target for reducing sleep problems among older women.
BEEAF
2
Score: A New Risk Stratification Score for Patients With Stage B Heart Failure From the KUNIUMI Registry Chronic Cohort
Authors: Odajima Susumu , Fujimoto Wataru , Takegami Misa , Nishimura Kunihiro , Iwasaki Masamichi , Okuda Masanori , Konishi Akihide , Shinohara Masakazu , Nagao Manabu , Toh Ryuji , Hirata Ken‐ichi , Tanaka Hidekazu
Published: September 2024

Background

Stage B heart failure (HF) refers to structural heart disease without signs or symptoms of HF, so that early intervention may delay or prevent the onset of overt HF. However, stage B HF is a very broad concept, and risk stratification of such patients can be challenging.

Methods and Results

We conducted a prospective study of data for 1646 consecutive patients with HF from the KUNIUMI (Kobe University Heart Failure Registry in Awaji Medical Center) registry chronic cohort. The definition of HF stages was based on current guidelines for classification of 29 patients as stage A HF, 761 as stage B HF, 827 as stage C HF, and 29 patients as stage D HF. The primary end point was the time‐to‐first‐event defined as cardiovascular death or HF hospitalization within 2.0 years of follow‐up. A maximum of 6 adjustment factor points was assigned based on Cox proportional hazards analysis findings for the hazard ratio (HR) of independent risk factors for the primary end point: 1 point for anemia, estimated glomerular filtration rate <45 mL/min per 1.73 m
2
, brain natriuretic peptide ≥150 pg/mL, and average ratio of early transmitral flow velocity to early diastolic mitral annular velocity >14, and 2 points for clinical frailty scale >3. Patients with stage B HF were stratified into 3 groups, low risk (0–1 points), moderate risk (2–3 points), and high risk (4–6 points). Based on this scoring system (BEEAF
2
[brain natriuretic peptide, estimated glomerular filtration rate, ratio of early transmitral flow velocity to early diastolic mitral annular velocity, anemia, and frailty]), the outcome was found to become worse in accordance with risk level. High‐risk patients with stage B HF and patients with stage C HF showed similar outcomes.

Conclusions

Our scoring system offers an easy‐to‐use evaluation of risk stratification for patients with stage B HF.
Predicting Individual Treatment Effects to Determine Duration of Dual Antiplatelet Therapy After Stent Implantation
Authors: Lee Seung‐Jun , Cho Jaehyeong , Shin Jihye , Hong Sung‐Jin , Ahn Chul‐Min , Kim Jung‐Sun , Ko Young‐Guk , Choi Donghoon , Hong Myeong‐Ki , You Seng Chan , Kim Byeong‐Keuk
Published: September 2024

Background

After coronary stent implantation, prolonged dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) increases bleeding risk, requiring personalization of DAPT duration. The aim of this study was to develop and validate a machine learning model to predict optimal DAPT duration after contemporary drug‐eluting stent implantation in patients with coronary artery disease.

Methods and Results

The One‐Month DAPT, RESET (Real Safety and Efficacy of 3‐Month Dual Antiplatelet Therapy Following Endeavor Zotarolimus‐Eluting Stent Implantation), and IVUS‐XPL (Impact of Intravascular Ultrasound Guidance on Outcomes of Xience Prime Stents in Long Lesion) trials provided a derivation cohort (n=6568). Using the X‐learner approach, an individualized DAPT score was developed to determine the therapeutic benefit of abbreviated (1–6 months) versus standard (12‐month) DAPT using various predictors. The primary outcome was major bleeding; the secondary outcomes included 1‐year major adverse cardiac and cerebrovascular events and 1‐year net adverse clinical events. The risk reduction with abbreviated DAPT (3 months) in the individualized DAPT–determined higher predicted benefit group was validated in the TICO (Ticagrelor Monotherapy After 3 Months in the Patients Treated With New Generation Sirolimus‐Eluting Stent for Acute Coronary Syndrome) trial (n=3056), which enrolled patients with acute coronary syndrome treated with ticagrelor. The validation cohort comprised 1527 abbreviated and 1529 standard DAPT cases. Major bleeding occurred in 25 (1.7%) and 45 (3.0%) patients in the abbreviated and standard DAPT groups, respectively. The individualized DAPT score identified 2582 (84.5%) participants who would benefit from abbreviated DAPT, which was significantly associated with a lower major bleeding risk (absolute risk difference [ARD], 1.26 [95% CI, 0.15–2.36]) and net adverse clinical events (ARD, 1.59 [95% CI, 0.07–3.10]) but not major adverse cardiac and cerebrovascular events (ARD, 0.63 [95% CI, −0.34 to 1.61]), compared with standard DAPT in the higher predicted benefit group. Abbreviated DAPT had no significant difference in clinical outcomes of major bleeding (ARD, 1.49 [95% CI, −1.74 to 4.72]), net adverse clinical events (ARD, 2.57 [95% CI, −1.85 to 6.99]), or major adverse cardiac and cerebrovascular events (ARD, 1.54 [95% CI, −1.26 to 4.34]), compared with standard DAPT in the individualized DAPT–determined lower predicted benefit group.

Conclusions

Machine learning using the X‐learner approach identifies patients with acute coronary syndrome who may benefit from abbreviated DAPT after drug‐eluting stent implantation, laying the groundwork for personalized antiplatelet therapy.
The United Nations Security Council and Global Health Threats
Authors: Kamradt-Scott Adam
Published: September 2024

covid-19 has prompted a range of new suggestions to reform the existing international system. One recommendation garnering political support has been to create a new Global Health Threats Council, comprised of heads of state, to facilitate sustained political commitment and investment in pandemic preparedness and response. A question that currently remains unanswered, however, is how and where this new body aligns to existing governance arrangements. Some observers have suggested the new body should report the United Nations Security Council on the basis it is charged with maintaining international peace and security. This paper evaluates the UN Security Council’s engagement with health crises over recent decades to consider the legal, political, and practical feasibility of the body assuming a larger role in responding to future disease events, and the appropriateness of the proposed Global Health Threats Council falling under the authority of the UN’s principal organ for international security.
“What the Secretariat Makes It”: United Nations Civil Servants between Administrative Function and Contemporary International Lawmaking
Authors: Birkenkötter Hannah
Published: September 2024

As the only international organization that aspires to be unviersal both in terms of its membership as well as in terms of the policy fields in which it intervenes, the United Nations (UN) occupies a unique position in international lawmaking. Focusing on the UN’s political and judicial or quasi-judicial organs does not, however, fully capture the organization’s lawmaking activities. Instead, much of the UN’s impact on international law today can be traced back to its civil servants. In this paper, I argue that international lawmaking today is best understood as processual and fluid, and that in contemporary lawmaking thus understood, the UN Secretariat plays an important role. I then propose two ways in which international civil servants add to international lawmaking: they engage in executive interpretation of broad and elusive norms, and they act as an interface between various actors on different governance levels. This raises novel legitimacy challenges for the international legal order.
The depositional differences of confined and unconfined turbidite sheet systems
Authors: LIU QUN , JI XIANG-YANG
Published: September 2024

The depositional architecture between unconfined and confined turbidite sheet systems are increasingly recognized, but the major differences are not summarized. This paper aims to summarize the major differences based on the well-studied published systems with known degree of confinement and depositional architectures. The unconfined and confined turbidite sheet systems differ greatly in four aspects: sedimentary facies, stacking patterns of individual beds, facies associations and onlap styles. The sedimentary facies in confined systems are mainly thick beds, occasionally with grain size breaks, overlain by thick mud caps; whereas beds in unconfined turbidite systems present less mud proportion. The stacking patterns in confined systems in mainly vertically stacked, whereas compensationally stacked in strike direction, and progradationally or retrogradationally stacked in dip direction. One facies association have only been identified in confined systems and four facies associations are found in unconfined systems. The vertical log of unconfined turbidite sheet systems presenting a transition of facies association, whereas no transitions in confined systems. The depositional architecture of turbidite sheet systems is controlled by both sediment supply and basin relief. The establishment between degree of confinement and various parameters in this study can be applied in the petroleum industry.
Two new species of Meliosma (Sabiaceae) from the Eastern Cordillera in Colombia
Authors: MOLINA DANIEL RUIZ , ÁVILA FABIO A. , CORTÉS-B. ROCÍO
Published: September 2024

Two new species of Meliosma (sect. Lorenzanea), Meliosma primogenita, and Meliosma quercifolia, found in the Northern Andes, are described, illustrated, and differentiated from related species. Meliosma primogenita was traditionally missidentified as M. bogotana but differs by being puberulous on the petioles, veins, abaxial surface, and inflorescences and having glandular trichomes on these structures. The petioles of M. primogenita are longer, 7–10 cm and their inflorescences are erect, terminal, or axillary up to 50 cm long. The outer and inner petals of M. primogenita are reclined at anthesis and the connective tissue of the stamens extends beyond the thecae. Meliosma quercifolia resembles M. cundinamarcensis, but differs by its chartaceous leaves with curved and appressed trichomes on the abaxial surface of the blades, a higher number of secondary veins per side, and pilose young branches, petioles, and inflorescences. A preliminary conservation status of Endangered (EN) is assigned for each species.
Mentha choujunensis, a new species from Indian Trans-Himalayan region of Ladakh
Authors: GANIE AIJAZ HASSAN , ISLAM TAJAMUL , KHUROO ANZAR AHMAD , RASOOL NAZIMA , BANOO SAKINA , ALI LIYAQAT , RESHI ZAFAR A.
Published: September 2024

Mentha choujunensis (Lamiaceae), a new species from Suru valley of district Kargil in Ladakh, Trans-Himalaya, India is described here. The new species can be distinguished from its closest congeneric M. longifolia in possessing prostate stem, leaves petiolate and ovate to ovate-lanceolate, sparsely pubescent, trichomes 1-celled on adaxial side and 2-celled on abaxial side, base oblique, margin serrate, calyx less than half the length of corolla tube, 8–10 veined, calyx teeth reddish brown with distal trichomes 3–4 celled long and corolla white. Photo-illustrations, comparison of diagnostic characters of the new species with M. longifolia and taxonomic key for the Indian species under section Mentha are provided to facilitate field identification.
Erratum: BRAYAN PAIVA CAVALCANTE, CLÉCIO DANILO DIAS DA SILVA, EVER-TON HILO DE SOUZA, LEONARDO M. VERSIEUX, ADRIANA PINHEIRO MARTINELLI (2024) Hohenbergia alba and Hohenbergia sparsiflora, two striking new bromeliads from the Brazilian Atlantic Forest. Phytotaxa 665 (3): 233–242.
Authors: CAVALCANTE BRAYAN PAIVA , SILVA CLÉCIO DANILO DIAS DA , SOUZA EVERTON HILO DE , VERSIEUX LEONARDO M. , MARTINELLI ADRIANA PINHEIRO
Published: September 2024

N/A
Excess Molar Volume and Deviations in Viscosity of the Binary Liquid Mixtures Containing 1,3-Dioxolane + Alkanols at T = 298.15k
Authors: Mishra Ravi , Sharma Dhirendra , Prajapati Chandra
Published: September 2024

Thermodynamic and transport properties of liquid and liquid mixtures have been used to understand the intermolecular interactions between the components of the mixture. The sound velocity, density and viscosity of binary liquid mixtures are important from practical and theoretical point of view to understand the liquid theory. In the present study sound velocity, density and viscosity have been measured of binary mixtures of 1, 3-dioxolane with pentanol, hexanol, heptanol, octanol, nonanol and decanol over the entire range of mole fraction at 298.15K, and atmospheric pressure. From these experimental measurements the excess molar volume (VmE), excess viscosity (ηE), acoustic impedance (ZE) and excess adiabatic compressibility (βadE), have been calculated. The excess molar volume (VmE), excess viscosity (ηE), acoustic impedance (ZE) and excess adiabatic compressibility (βadE), have been analyzed in terms of interactions arising due to structural effect, charge-transfer complexes and dipole-dipole interaction between unlike molecules. These deviations have been correlated by a polynomial Redlich-Kister equation. The excess properties are found to be eighter negative or positive depending on the molecular interactions and nature of the liquid mixtures. Excess properties provide important information in understanding the solute-solvent interaction in a solution. The excess molar volume (VmE), excess viscosity (ηE), acoustic impedance (ZE) and excess adiabatic compressibility (βadE), values have been interpreted to terms of the nature of intermolecular interactions between constituent molecules of mixtures.
Colonic Tuberculosis Mimicking Colonic Cancer: A Multidisciplinary Diagnosis and Case Report
Authors: Lucas Fekade , Tadele Abraham , Engida Ghion , Geremew Teketel , Wodajo Abebaw , Gemechu Melaku , Ayele Menberu , Tegengne Kalkidan , Ebrahim Akmel , Tesgera Tigist
Published: September 2024

Gastrointestinal tuberculosis accounts for 1% to 3 % of all TB cases worldwide. Colonic tuberculosis is rare and can be mistaken for malignancy. It commonly presents as chronic abdominal pain along with night sweats, diarrhea, and fatigue and can resemble variety of other diseases making the diagnosis difficult. It presents with vague clinical and radiological picture making the diagnosis challenging for the clinicians. Its diagnosis is usually made by combining clinical features, radiological, tissue AFP staining and histopathologal examinations. The typical histopathologic findings include confluent large granulomas and langhans giant cells with caseating necrosis. Gastrointestinal tuberculosis responds well to standard antituberculous drugs and surgery is done for patients that have complications like strictures or obstruction which does not respond to medical therapy. This case illustrates a 40 year old man who presented with crampy lower abdominal pain and diagnosed as a colonic cancer both on imaging and clinically which later found to have colonic tuberculosis on a colectomy histopathologic sample. He was treated with anti-TB and respond well to his treatment. This case will give an insight for treating physicians to have a high index of suspicion for colonic TB in a patient who presented with lower abdominal pain and having colonic mass.
Analysis of Midlife Approaches to Reduce the Risk Factors of Dementia Among Adults in the United Kingdom
Authors: Ayandeyi Kehinde , Shaha Sabita , Chilaka Marcus
Published: September 2024

Dementia is an illness of the brain in which there is deterioration in a person's cognitive abilities. This interferes with one's ability to carry out everyday tasks and maintain social autonomy by adversely affecting memory, behavior, reasoning, and social capacities. The study reviewed the epidemiological literature on dementia and its risk factors as well as the several midlife strategies for lowering the risk of dementia. This is with a view to explore the midlife strategies in lowering the risk factors of dementia among adults in the United Kingdom. The study adopted reviews of literature carried out systematically. The specifications described in the “Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA)” were followed in reviewing the literature to ensure a comprehensive and transparent methodology. Literature search was conducted systematically in scientific databases to identify empirical studies that are pertinent. The comprehensive search strategy aimed to retrieve as many relevant studies as possible within the scope of the review. It employed a combination of keywords related to dementia risk factors, behavioral and psychological impacts, older people, and the UK context. The search terms were adapted to fit the specific requirements of each database, ensuring optimal retrieval of relevant literature. In total, 16 publications were included in the study after the eligibility of these articles was verified. By leveraging the potential advantages of internet-based, individualised health prevention measures, both the general public and primary care providers become more aware of dementia as well as help to solve the issue. Dementia and various cognitive impairments have been repeatedly associated to high blood pressure. Recent findings support the idea that decreasing blood pressure in middle age is an important strategy for preventing dementia in old age. Education has a protective impact and that the majority of previously investigated risk factors including physical inactivity, diabetes, air pollution, hearing loss, hypertension, obesity, social isolation, depression, and smoking increase the incidence of dementia. People who adhered to the MedDiet the best had a 23% reduced risk of dementia than those who adhered the least. The study concluded that significant modifiable risk variables, particularly socioeconomic and lifestyle factors, were more strongly associated with dementia and contributed to higher attributable fractions of dementia cases.
A Machine Learning Approach to Optimal Group Formation Based on Previous Academic Performance
Authors: Hasan Mahbub , Babu Md. Shohel , Emran Md. Al
Published: September 2024

In today’s educational institutions, student performance can vary widely due to differences in cognition, motivation, and environmental factors. These variations create challenges in achieving optimal learning outcomes. To address these challenges, Optimal Group Formation (OGF) has emerged as a promising research area. Optimal Group Formation (OGF) aims to form student groups that maximize learning efficiency based on past academic performance. Group formation problems are inherently complex and time-consuming, but their applications are extensive, spanning from manufacturing systems to educational contexts. This paper introduces a machine learning-based model designed to create optimal student groups using academic records as the primary input. The goal is to enhance overall group performance and reduce error rates by organizing students into cohesive, efficient teams. What sets this research apart is its focus on educational group formation, leveraging machine learning to improve collaborative learning outcomes. The paper also reviews prior research, emphasizing the importance of Optimal Group Formation (OGF) in various fields and its relevance in education. The model’s effectiveness is demonstrated through comparative analysis, showcasing its potential to improve group dynamics in both theoretical and lab-based courses. Ultimately, the aim is to improve educational outcomes by ensuring that student groups are optimally balanced and structured.
Efficacy and Safety of Acupuncture for Tourette Syndrome in Children: A Meta-Analysis and Systematic Review
Authors: Lai Siran , Wan Hongjun , Deng Fuyuan , Li Yue , An Yue , Peng Junsheng , Yang Xiang-Na
Published: September 2024

Despite the widespread use of acupuncture, its effectiveness and safety in treating Tourette syndrome (TS) remain controversial. Our research seeks to further evaluate the safety and effectiveness of acupuncture as a replacement therapy approach for children with TS. We conducted a comprehensive search for studies published from their inception to October 2023. The statistical analysis and subgroup analysis were conducted by software. Conduct a meta-analysis on the extracted data using the appropriate effect models. The meta-analysis was conducted on 26 studies consisting 1862 pediatric patients, which were selected from 976 identified articles. Acupuncture group demonstrated a significantly lower risk with a risk ratio (RR) of 0.29 (95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.19, 0.44, P < .0001), with only 5% of participants experiencing adverse reactions. Acupuncture treatment resulted in an 18% improvement in total effectiveness rates (RR = 1.18, 95% CI = [1.12, 1.25], P < .00001). The pooled data demonstrated that acupuncture therapy had a significant advantage in reducing the total score with the weighted mean difference (WMD) −4.92 (95% CI = [−6.38, −3.45], P < .00001) of the Yale Global Tic Severity Scale (YGTSS), the motor tic scores (WMD = −2.24, 95% CI = [−3.14, −1.35], P < .00001), the vocal tic scores (WMD: −2.34, 95% CI = [−3.31, −1.37], P < .00001), and the Traditional Chinese Medicine Syndrome Scores (TCMSS) (WMD: −2.47, 95% CI = [−2.87, −2.07], P < .0001). This meta-analysis reveals that acupuncture is more effective than most existing treatments in mitigating the symptoms of motor and vocal tics in children with TS, while also reducing the incidence of adverse reactions.
Event-triggered cascade predictor for a class of nonlinear MIMO systems with large communication delays
Authors: Shen Shaobo , Zhang Haochen , Li Tao , Song Aiguo
Published: September 2024

The event-triggered predictor design problem for a class of nonlinear MIMO systems with large time delays is investigated in this paper. A periodic event-triggered mechanism is designed to avoid unnecessary data transmission and save communication energy. The triggering condition is only determined by sampled outputs of the system, such that it is applicable in case of the communication delay. Then a novel observer-based cascade predictor is proposed to reconstruct the original system state based on the delayed and event-triggered measurements, which is composed of a continuous-discrete observer and several sub-predictors in a chain structure. The stability of proposed predictor is analyzed through the Lyapunov approach. By using a sufficient number of sub-predictors and applying appropriate parameters, the prediction errors converge to bounded regions exponentially under large time delays. Finally, simulations are performed to verify the effectiveness of the proposed predictor and the event-triggered communication mechanism.
Estimating the Expected Change in Safety for a Potential Application of Three Intelligent Transportation System Treatments
Authors: Persaud Bhagwant , Srinivasan Raghavan , Gayah Vikash , Kersavage Kristin , Saleem Taha , Hallmark Shauna , Mohammadi Cameron
Published: September 2024

This paper documents and illustrates a practice-ready procedure for estimating changes in crash frequency for specific application circumstances for three intelligent transportation system treatments—Closed Circuit Television Cameras (CCTV), Dynamic Message Signs (DMS), and Road Weather Information Systems (RWIS). The procedure will allow an agency to directly evaluate the change in safety that may be associated with a contemplated treatment. In effect, the approach mimics the application of a Crash Modification Function (CMFunction) in that each potential application will, in principle, have its own Crash Modification Factor (CMF). The procedure uses an empirical Bayes framework with safety performance functions (SPFs) for treatment and non-treatment reference sites. The paper also presents those SPFs, which were developed from Pennsylvania freeway data. In principle, this cross-sectional approach can be applied, as it has been, for other safety treatments where safety effects vary with application circumstance and where that variability cannot be captured with conventional before–after studies.
Severe bleeding in patients following “tubeless” percutaneous nephrolithotomy: Predictors of angioembolization
Authors: Surag K. R. , Shah Abhijit , Vishwanath Gali Kasi , Krishnakanth A. V. B. , Chawla Arun , Hegde Padmaraj , Choudhary Anupam , Rao Mithun
Published: September 2024

Introduction:

Percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) is a widely used procedure for treating renal calculi. Advanced techniques have improved outcomes, but hemorrhage remains a significant complication. While most cases of hemorrhagic complications are typically managed conservatively, few cases necessitate interventions like angioembolization (AE). The purpose of this study is to identify risk factors closely associated with severe bleeding post-PCNL requiring AE and to assess if these factors can independently predict the type of lesion [arteriovenous fistula (AVF) vs pseudoaneurysm (PA)].

Materials and method:

A retrospective analysis was conducted on 119 patients who underwent “tubeless” PCNL and experienced severe bleeding between January 2018 and December 2023. The study reviewed demographic characteristics, stone characteristics, perioperative factors, and adverse events. The chi-square test and Fisher’s exact test were used for univariate analysis. Logistic regression analysis was used in binomial analysis with a value of p < 0.05 considered statistically significant.

Results:

Out of 119 patients, 51 required AE. Elevated preoperative serum creatinine levels (>1.5 mg/dl) [ p = 0.01], upper pole access [ p = 0.008], and a larger access sheath size (standard PCNL vs mini-PCNL) [ p ⩽ 0.001] were found to be significantly associated with AE. Logistic regression analysis revealed standard PCNL was significantly associated with post-PCNL bleeding requiring AE (odds ratio [OR]: 50, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 6.529–382.90, p ⩽ 0.001). Stone size and co-morbidities showed no significant association with AE. The average duration of presentation of symptoms post PCNL was 13.6 days. Most patients underwent coiling for AE, with a clinical success rate of 94%.

Conclusion:

Elevated serum creatinine levels, upper pole access, and tract size >24 Fr are more prone to post-tubeless PCNL severe bleeding, which requires renal AE. The findings suggest that early angiography and possible AE should be considered for at-risk patients. In the future, these predictors may be integrated into predictive models to improve patient risk stratification.
Exploring intradermal sterile water injection as an alternative to natrium diclofenac for kidney-stone related pain relief: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Gohtama Satria , Thaniel Malvin , Janice Livia , Rulando Michael , Wiyarta Elvan
Published: September 2024

Background:

Kidney stone-related pain often presents significant challenges in clinical practice, mainly due to the adverse effects by NSAIDs, which are the current first-line treatment for urolithiasis. Patients presenting with gastrointestinal tract disorders and contraindications toward NSAIDs are particularly susceptible. Intradermal sterile water injection (SWI) has evidently become apparent as one of the promising alternatives, offering rapid pain relief with minimal adverse effects. This purpose of this study to assess the safety and efficacy of SWI in comparison to NSAIDs particularly Natrium Diclofenac in the management of kidney-stone related pain.

Main Body:

A systematic review and meta-analysis was performed on papers published up to January 2024 obtained from scientific databases, guided by the PRISMA flowchart. The Cochrane risk of bias 2.0 tool was used to assess quality of the included studies. Statistical analyses were then performed using Review Manager 5.4.1 on studies that provide the baseline and complete follow-up numerical outcomes (e.g. mean and standard deviation) required. After screening was done, 3 retrievable studies met the inclusion and exclusion criteria with a total of 770 participants with kidney stone related pain. The result revealed no significant difference in pain reduction between SWI and Natrium diclofenac at 30 min (MD −0.12, 95% CI −0.68 to 0.44) and 60 min (MD −0.23, 95% CI −0.65 to 0.18). Furthermore, patients treated with SWI display a reduced need for rescue analgesia compared to Natrium Diclofenac (OR 0.73, 95% CI 0.36 to 1.49). Adverse events result was more superior in SWI, having lower occurrence when compared to Natrium Diclofenac, although not significant (OR 0.14, 95% CI 0.05 to 0.39).

Conclusions:

Intradermal sterile water injection (SWI) appears to be a promising alternative to NSAIDs for kidney stone related pain management, offering comparable efficacy in pain reduction, reduced need for rescue analgesia while maintaining a favorable safety profile. However, further research with larger sample sizes and standardized treatment protocols are required to further validate its safety and efficacy.
International human rights commitments to protect victims of domestic violence: Refugee recognition as the first step for an integrated approach under EU law in Case C-621/21, Intervyuirasht organ na DAB pri MS (women victims of domestic violence)
Authors: Loxa Alezini
Published: September 2024

The judgment by the Grand Chamber of the Court of in Case C-621/21 Intervyuirasht organ na DAB pri MS case has already attracted significant attention for the finding of the Court that women victims of domestic violence can be considered as members of particular social group for the purposes of recognition of refugee status. This case note presents the facts of the case and analyses reasoning of the Court. It highlights the importance of the case both for its outcome, which has already guided subsequent findings of the Court on the refugee status of women of Iraqi origin identifying with the values of the EU, but also for placing the international human rights commitments of both the EU and its Member States at the core of the reasoning. At the same time, some contentious points of the judgment are also raised. These relate to the ‘hiding’ of the ECtHR case law in the reasoning of the Court and to the fragmented way in which international human rights obligations towards victims of domestic violence appear in other areas of EU law and case law.
Primary Aortic Malignant Peripheral Nerve Sheath Tumor
Authors: Mori Hisaya , Takagi Hisato
Published: September 2024

A 74 year-old woman suffering 1 month persisting lumbago was referred with diagnosis of thoracic aortic aneurysm. Blood examinations indicated slightly or moderately elevated noradrenaline, dopamine, and homovanillic acid with normal-range vanillylmandelic acid. Contrast-enhanced CT scans revealed a tumor, protruding both intra- and extra-luminally, in the wall of the distal descending thoracic aorta without any primary focuses in the whole body. Primary aortic sarcoma or periaortic catecholamine-producing paraganglioma infiltrating the aorta was suspected. The tumor with the normal proximal and distal aorta 2-3 cm apart from it was completely resected under femoro-femoral partial cardiopulmonary bypass. Macroscopically, the tumor was originated from the aortic wall and protruded both intra- and extra-luminally. Immunohistochemically, positive S-100 and vimentin; Ki67 levels of 40%; and negative CD34, CK AE1/AE3, and SMA were identified. The aforementioned findings definitively diagnosed primary aortic malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumor, which has been never reported in the literature.
Uptake of cervical cancer screening among sex workers living with HIV in Nairobi, Kenya: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Akolo Maureen , Gelmon Lawrence , Musembi Horatius , Mutwiri Benard , Kambo Isabel , Kimani Joshua , Akolo Christopher
Published: September 2024

Background:

Hospitals within Nairobi County, Kenya, offer cervical cancer screening services. However, most female sex workers do not seek this service.

Objective:

To determine uptake of cervical cancer screening among female sex workers living with HIV in Nairobi, Kenya.

Design:

A descriptive cross-sectional study.

Methods:

Computerized simple random sampling was used to select 75 study participants who met the inclusion criteria; data were collected using a structured questionnaire. The study was carried out among female sex workers living with HIV in Nairobi, Kenya, attending the Sex Workers Outreach Program.

Results:

40% ( n = 30) of respondents were aged 18–25 years. Only 45.3% (34) had been screened for cervical cancer within the last 1 year. 65.3% ( n = 49) of respondents knew that cervical cancer affects the cervix but were not aware of what caused the disease. 77.6% ( n = 58) found the 8 am–5 pm health facility opening hours a hinderance to seeking services and 66.7% ( n = 50) found the screening method uncomfortable. Cultural practices and beliefs fostered stigma in 39.2% ( n = 29) of the sex workers; hence, they did not seek out services.

Conclusion:

Lack of information, cultural barriers, and facility operating hours prevent female sex workers living with HIV from getting tested for cervical cancer. These barriers once addressed could improve cervical cancer screening uptake among this high-risk population.