bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Determinants of Community Acquired Pneumonia among Adult Patients at Health Facility in Debre Berhan Town, Ethiopia: A Case-Control Study
Authors: Mulugeta Besufekad , Tesfahun Esubalew , Mamo Tadesse , Mohammaed Erzik , Endewent Ermiyas , Ayele Mollawork
Published: July 2023

Background: Community-acquired pneumonia in adult remains an important cause of morbidity and mortality both in industrialized and developing countries including Ethiopia. Morbidity and mortality from community-acquired pneumonia have not improved during the last decades despite the best clinical standards available. Therefore, prompt assessment and correction of modifiable risk factors is crucial to reduce morbidity and mortality. But, there is a limited data on this issue in the current study area. Therefore, this study aimed to identify the determinants of community acquired pneumonia among adult patients visiting Debre Berhan University Hospital, Ethiopia.
Methods:An institution based un-matched case-control study design was conducted. A consecutive sampling technique was employed to select 113 cases and 113 controls until. Using SPSS version 25 software bi-variable and multi-variable logistic regression analysis was done to identify determinants of community acquired pneumonia. Adjusted odds ratios with 95% confidence intervals and p-value < 0.05 were used to assess the level of significance.
Results: In this study, recent history of common cold [AOR: 4.35, 95% CI: (2.22, 8.51)], recent history of toothache [AOR: 2.51, 95% CI: (1.18, 5.33)], and not brushing a teeth regularly [AOR, 2.79, 95% CI: (1.32, 5.88)] were significantly associated with community acquired pneumonia.
Conclusion:In this study, common cold, recent history of toothache and lack of regular oral hygiene is significantly associated with community acquired pneumonia in adult. Therefore, health promotion on oral hygiene and common cold are recommended to decrease risk of pneumonia.
Brain-enriched guanylate kinase-associated protein (BEGAIN), a component of the post-synaptic density protein complexes, contributes to physiological plasticity, learning and memory
Authors: Katano Tayo , Konno Kohtarou , Takao Keizo , Abe Manabu , Yoshikawa Akari , Miyakawa Tsuyoshi , Sakimura Kenji , Watanabe Masahiko , Ito Seiji , Kobayashi Takuya
Published: July 2023

Brain-enriched guanylate kinase-associated protein (BEGAIN) is a neuropathic pain-related protein in the spinal dorsal horn that is highly enriched in the post-synaptic density (PSD) fraction. PSD proteins complexes containing N-methyl-d-aspartate (NMDA) receptors are known to be involved in synaptic plasticity in neuropathic pain. Since these PSD proteins are also participate in synaptic plasticity in learning and memory, BEGAIN is also expected to play a crucial role in this plasticity. To verify this, we first examined the distribution of BEGAIN in the brain. We found that BEGAIN was widely distributed in the brain and highly expressed in the dendritic regions of the hippocampus. Moreover, we also found that BEGAIN was concentrated in the PSD fraction of the hippocampus. Furthermore, immunoelectron microscopy confirmed that BEGAIN was localized at the asymmetric synapses. To determine the contribution of BEGAIN towards learning and memory, behavioral tests were performed using BEGAIN-knockout (KO) mice. Spatial reference memory and reversal learning in the Barns circular maze test along with contextual fear and cued fear memory in the contextual and cued fear conditioning test were significantly impaired in BEGAIN KO mice in comparison to the wild-type mice. Thus, this study reveals that BEGAIN is an excitatory postsynaptic molecule involved in learning and memory.
Public’s Willingness to Perform COVID-19 Self-Testing during the Transition to the Endemic Phase in Malaysia – A Population-Based Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Ng Diana-Leh-Ching , Jamalludin Mohd Amirulikhmar Bin , Gan Xhi-Yan , Ng Siew-Yoong , Rasidin Muhammad Zulhusni Bin Mohamad , Felix Beverlyn Anak , Jagang Nicholas M , Sindeh Woweham , Rahim Mohd Abdul Hafiz Bin Mohd Abdul , Tan Seng-Beng , Chai Chee-Shee Chai
Published: July 2023

Background
Malaysia entered the transition to the endemic phase of Coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) on 1st April 2022. This study aims to determine the public’s willingness to perform COVID-19 self-testing. Factors that influenced their willingness to engage in COVID-19 self-testing were also assessed.
Methods
A nationwide, cross-sectional, and population-based study was conducted online in Malaysia from 28th April 2023 to 4th June 2023. Individuals aged 18 years and above were enrolled through the snowball sampling method. Statistical methods used to analyse data include the Chi-Square test, independent t-test, and binary logistic regression.
Results
Out of the 1,527 responses received, 1,453 (95.2%) were included in the analysis. Of these respondents, 89.3% were willing, 4.1% were not willing, and 6.6% remained hesitant to perform COVID-19 self-testing, Women [odds ratios (OR): 2.1, 95% confidence intervals (95% CI): 1.44–3.00, p < 0.001], individuals with tertiary education (OR: 2.1, 95% CI: 1.32–3.26, p = 0.002), those vaccinated against COVID-19 (OR: 8.1, 95% CI: 2.63–24.82, p < 0.001), and individuals with prior experience of COVID-19 self-testing (OR: 4.2, 95% CI: 2.84–6.12, p < 0.001) showed a significantly higher willingness to engage in self-testing. The common reasons given by those willing to perform COVID-19 self-testing included being able to self-isolate (99.0%) and seek treatment (96.3%) earlier if they tested positive for COVID-19. The common reasons against COVID-19 self-testing included the belief that COVID-19 is equivalent to the common flu (91.7%) and having received the COVID-19 vaccine (78.3%). The isolation policy for COVID-19 was the most significant consideration for those who were still hesitant (85.4%).
Conclusions
The public exhibited a high willingness to perform COVID-19 self-testing during the transition to the endemic phase in Malaysia. Future strategies to promote COVID-19 self-testing uptake in Malaysia should focus on vulnerable groups, address the common concerns among those hesitant and reluctant, and highlight the advantages of self-testing.
Soli-enabled Noncontact Heart Rate Detection for Sleep and Meditation Tracking
Authors: Xu Luzhou , Lien Jaime , Li Haiguang , Gillian Nicholas , Nongpiur Rajeev , Li Jihan , Zhang Qian , Cui Jian , Jorgensen David , Bernstein Adam , Bedal Lauren , Hayashi Eiji , Yamanaka Jin , Lee Alex , Wang Jian , Shin D , Poupyrev Ivan , Thormundsson Trausti , Pathak Anupam , Patel Shwetak
Published: July 2023

Heart rate (HR) is a crucial physiological signal that can be used to monitor health and fitness. Traditional methods for measuring HR require wearable devices, which can be inconvenient or uncomfortable, especially during sleep and meditation. Noncontact HR detection methods employing microwave radar can be a promising alternative. However, the existing approaches in the literature usually use high-gain antennas and require the sensor to face the user’s chest or back, making them difficult to integrate into a portable device and unsuitable for sleep and meditation tracking applications. This study presents a novel approach for noncontact HR detection using a miniaturized Soli radar chip embedded in a portable device (Google Nest Hub). The chip has a 6.5 mm × 5 mm × 0.9 mm dimension and can be easily integrated into various devices. The proposed approach utilizes advanced signal processing and machine learning techniques to extract HRs from radar signals. The approach is validated on a sleep dataset (62 users, 498 hours) and a meditation dataset (114 users, 1131 minutes). The approach achieves a mean absolute error (MAE) of 1.69 bpm and a mean absolute percentage error (MAPE) of 2.67% on the sleep dataset. On the meditation dataset, the approach achieves an MAE of 1.05 bpm and a MAPE of 1.56%. The recall rates for the two datasets are 88.53% and 98.16%, respectively. This study represents the first application of the noncontact HR detection technology to sleep and meditation tracking, offering a promising alternative to wearable devices for HR monitoring during sleep and meditation.
Delving into the Life Experiences of School-aged Children Afflicted by Tethered spinal cord syndrome: An Interpretative Qualitative Study
Authors: Lin Nan , Xiang Yujun , Li Jiahuan , Wang Dan , Xu Hongzhen
Published: July 2023

Tethered cord syndrome in pediatric patients manifests as an intricate interplay of complications permeating educational, familial, and societal contexts, underscoring the necessity of a comprehensive understanding of their subjective emotional states and life experiences. However, the healthcare sector often exhibits a skewed focus on the physical functionality of the afflicted pediatric patients throughout their treatment and post-treatment phases, frequently neglecting the emotional dimensions of their experience. As such, there is a pressing need to enhance our understanding of the lived experiences and perceptions of pediatric patients with tethered cord syndrome upon their reintroduction into familial, educational, and broader societal environments post-discharge. This study was executed at the Children's Hospital in Zhejiang, incorporating twelve tethered cord syndrome-affected participants aged between 8 to 15 years. An interpretative qualitative research design was employed, employing semi-structured interviews as the chief data acquisition tool. Reflexive thematic analysis was utilized for data evaluation, enabling an exhaustive scrutiny of emerging thematic patterns. Four major themes (and seven sub-themes) were identified from the findings: (1) growing pains (a shameful secret, distance between ideal and reality); (2) inappropriate expressions of familial affection (knowing is not understanding, unspeakable guilt); (3) social estrangement (uncomfortable distinctions, familiar stranger); (4) striving for independence and consistency. Pediatric patients with tethered cord syndrome display intrinsic sensitivity and face complexities in personal growth, familial relationships, and social interactions. Their aspirations revolve around future independence and freedom, similar to their developmentally typical counterparts. The findings of this study offer critical insights for healthcare providers, families, and educators, fostering a deeper comprehension of the experiences and challenges faced by children with tethered cord syndrome. Furthermore, the results serve as a foundation for potential interventions promoting self-expression and enabling these patients to perceive life as a meaningful and positive journey.
Waveflex semi-rigid dynamic internal fixation system delays intervertebral disc degeneration at adjacent segments and improves spinal sagittal imbalance: A retrospective single-centre clinical study with a 5-year follow-up
Authors: Gao Wenxin , Chen Yungang , Liu Guoyan , Hou pengfei , Guo cunliang , yang xu , Wang Xiaoying , hao yanke
Published: July 2023

Background: The Waveflex semi-rigid dynamic internal fixation system shows good short-term effects in the treatment of lumbar degenerative diseases, but there are few long-term follow-up studies, especially for recovery of sagittal balance.
Materials and Methods: Fifty patients with lumbar degenerative diseases treated from January 2016 to October 2017 were retrospectively analysed: 25 patients treated with Waveflex semi-rigid dynamic internal fixation system (Waveflex group) and 25 patients treated with double-segment PLIF (PLIF group). Clinical efficacy was evaluated by Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) and Oswestry Disability Index (ODI). Imaging data before surgery and at 3 months, 1 year, and 5 years postoperatively was used for imaging indicator assessment. Local disc degeneration of the cephalic adjacent segment (including disc height index (DHI), intervertebral foramen height (IFH), and range of motion (ROM)) and overall spinal motor function (including lumbar lordosis (LL), pelvic incidence (PI), sacral slope (SS), pelvic tilt (PT), and |PI-LL|) were analysed.
Results: Regarding clinical efficacy, comparison of VAS and ODI scores between the Waveflex and PLIF groups showed no significant preoperative or postoperative differences. The comparison of the objective imaging indicators showed no significant differences in the DHI, IFH, LL, |PI-LL|, and SS values between the Waveflex and PLIF groups preoperatively and 3 months postoperatively (P>0.05). These values were significantly different at 1 and 5 years postoperatively (P＜0.05), and the Waveflex group showed better ROM values than those of the PLIF group (P＜0.05). PI values were not significantly different between the groups, but PT showed a significant improvement in the Waveflex group 5 years postoperatively (P＜0.05).
Conclusion: The Waveflex semi-rigid dynamic fixation system can effectively reduce the probability of intervertebral disc degeneration in upper adjacent segments. Simultaneously, patients in the Waveflex group showed postoperative improvements in LL, spinal sagittal imbalance, and quality of life.
Acute exposure of microwave impairs attention process by activating microglial inflammation
Authors: Jiang Shaofei , Ma Yingping , Shi Yuan , Zou Yong , Yang Zhenqi , Zhi Weijia , Zhao Zhe , Shen Wei , Chen Liping , Wu Yan , Wang Lifeng , Hu Xiangjun , Wu Haitao
Published: July 2023

Background
Attention provides the foundation for cognitions, which was shown to be affected by microwave (MW) radiation. With the ubiquitous of microwaves, public concerns regarding the impact of MW radiation on attention has hence been increased. Our study aims to investigate the potential effect and mechanism of acute microwave exposure on attention.
Results
We identified obvious impairment of attention in mice by the five-choice serial reaction time (5-CSRT) task. Proteomic analysis of the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) revealed neuroinflammation and microglial activation potentially due to acute MW exposure. Moreover, biochemical analysis further confirmed microglial activation in the prefrontal cortex (PFC) of mice subjected to acute MW exposure. Finally, minocycline, a commercially available anti-inflammatory compound, attenuated neuroinflammation, inhibited the upregulation of N-methyl-D-aspartic acid receptor (NMDAR) including NR2A and NR2B, and also accelerated the attentional recovery after MW exposure.
Conclusions
We believe that microglial activation and NMDAR upregulation likely contribute to inattention induced by acute MW exposure, and we found that minocycline may be effective in preventing such process.
Individualized Treatment Decision Model for Inoperable Elderly Esophageal Squamous Cell Carcinoma based on Multi-Modal Data Fusion
Authors: Huang Yong , Huang Xiaoyu , Wang Anling , Chen Qiwei , Chen Gong , Ye Jingya , Wang Yaru , Qin Zhihui , Xu Kai
Published: July 2023

Background
This research aimed to develop a model for individualized treatment decision-making in inoperable elderly patients with esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) using machine learning methods and multi-modal data.
Methods
A total of 169 inoperable elderly ESCC patients aged 65 or older who underwent concurrent chemoradiotherapy (CCRT) or radiotherapy (RT) were included. Multi-task learning models were created using machine learning techniques to analyze multi-modal data, including pre-treatment CT images, clinical information, and blood test results. Nomograms were constructed to predict the objective response rate (ORR) and progression-free survival (PFS) for different treatment strategies. Optimal treatment plans were recommended based on the nomograms. Patients were stratified into high-risk and low-risk groups using the nomograms, and survival analysis was performed using Kaplan-Meier curves.
Results
The identified risk factors influencing ORR were histologic grade (HG), T stage and three radiomic features including original shape elongation, first-order skewness and original shape flatness, while risk factors influencing PFS included BMI, HG and three radiomic features including high gray-level run emphasis, first-order minimum and first-order skewness. These risk factors were incorporated into the nomograms as independent predictive factors. PFS was substantially different between the low-risk group (total score ≤ 110) and the high-risk group (total score > 110) according to Kaplan–Meier curves (P < 0.05).
Conclusions
The developed predictive models for ORR and PFS in inoperable elderly ESCC patients provide valuable insights for predicting treatment efficacy and prognosis. The nomograms enable personalized treatment decision-making and can guide optimal treatment plans for inoperable elderly ESCC patients.
The Moderating Effects of Narcissism on the Relationship between Motivation, Peer Interaction, and Social Loafing in Physical Education: Implications for Promoting Positive Behavior
Authors: Xi Xiao-Lei , Lin Xin-Mao , Huang Mei-Yao , Shih Kuo-Tung
Published: July 2023

This study explores the positive effects of motivation and peer interaction on social loafing in the context of physical education (PE) while considering the moderating role of narcissism. Three hundred and fifty-one college students were recruited and administered the Motivation in PE Scale, Peer Interaction in PE Scale, Narcissistic Personality Inventory (NPI), rating of perceived exertion (RPE), and Physical Fitness Test. The hierarchical regression analysis found that narcissism moderated the association between motivation, peer interaction, and RPE after controlling variables of socio-demographic characteristics and physical fitness. It can thus be concluded that narcissism might regulate the positive effect of motivation and peer interaction on social loafing. Our findings suggested that motivation and peer interaction could enhance narcissists who desire to garner admiration during the working of a group task in PE as one of the strategies to decrease their social loafing and could promote good physical health as social responsibility.
Genetics of Smoking and Risk of Spinal Degenerative Diseases: A Two-Sample Mendelian Randomization Study
Authors: Shao Jiashen , Zhang Huixin , Tan Haining , Zhao Hengqiang , Wu Zhihong , Fei Qi
Published: July 2023

Background: The causal association of smoking in spinal degenerative diseases (SDD) remains uncertain. The main objective of this study was to investigate the causal association between genetic susceptibility of smoking and degenerative spinal disorders by using Mendelian randomization (MR).
Materials and methods: Summary statistics for SDD were obtained from the Genome-Wide Association Study (GWAS), including 20,001 intervertebral disc degenerative disease (IVDD) cases, 8,915 sciatica cases, 13,178 low back pain (LBP) cases, and 164,682 controls. Instrumental variables (IVs) and genetic association estimates for smoking initiation were obtained from the Consortium for the Sequencing to Alcohol and Nicotine Use's (GSCAN) GWAS study that included 607,291 individuals of European ancestry. MR analyses were performed using the inverse variance weighting (IVW) method, supplemented with a weighted median method. Potential pleiotropy was assessed using MR-Egger regression. A further sensitivity analysis was performed to test the robustness of the association.
Results: In inverse-variance–weighted MR analysis, the genetic susceptibility to smoking initiation was associated with increased risk of IVDD (OR, 1.22; 95% CI, 1.07-1.39; P = 3.6 × 10−16), sciatica (OR, 1.22; 95% CI, 1.03-1.46; P = 0.02), and LBP (OR, 1.34; 95% CI, 1.15-1.56; P = 0.04). The results of the multivariate MR analysis showed that the point estimates of the association between smoking and SDD were not attenuated after accounting for the risk factors associated with SDD (IVDD: OR, 1.24 [95% CI, 1.03-1.45]; P < 0.05; LBP: OR, 1.33 [95% CI, 1.08-1.58]; P < 0.01). However, a significant causal association between smoking and sciatica was not identified in multivariate MR (Sciatica: OR, 1.06 [95% CI, 0.84-1.28]; P = 0.599).
Conclusion: These results support a causal association between smoking and increased risk of SDD. Further studies are needed to explain the potential mechanisms of smoking in the development of SDD.
Problems and Possibilities of Technology-Dependent Children with Long-term Home Ventilation: 10 Years of Implementation of Home Medical Care in Japan
Authors: Maeda Hirotoshi , Tomomatsu Ikuko , Iikura Izumi , Ikari Masahiro , Kondo Youichi , Yamamoto Miyuki , Tamura Masanori
Published: July 2023

Purpose
Since the establishment of Japan’s publicly-supported pediatric home medical care (PHMC) system in 2012, the number of technology-dependent children (TDC) who are supported by PHMC, particularly with respiratory devices, keeps increasing. We aimed to study the problems of the care-burden of families who use this system in relation to TDC’s mobility and recovery process, with a focus on respiratory supports.
Methods
Questionnaire survey data were collected from 1,162 caregivers of TDC from 2018 to 2020. In each medical procedure, the correlation of TDC’s motor function level with care burden (Care Time (CT) & Self-rated Care Burden (SCB)) was analyzed by using correlation analysis. In 15 households caregivers’ activities were monitored to elucidate the problems of the care objectively. The follow-up study was conducted on a subpopulation whose medical records were accessible.
Results
Analysis of 418 cases showed that care-burden increased with improvements in the children’s motor ability in tracheostomy, or remained the same in other procedures. A follow-up study in 262 cases showed that these TDC with high mobility aged 1–8 had a high potential to be weaned from medical devices.
Conclusion
TDC who gain motor ability during the course of PHMC has more potential to be released from their respiratory devices and for better daily life. However, when they become mobile, social support is cut off despite the increase in care-burden for mobile TDC. It is important to maintain social support for TDC on the recovering mobile stage.
Baseline reproductive and sexual health knowledge among undergraduate students in Manitoba, Canada
Authors: Jain Kunal , Jain Esha , Rai Karnvir , Wilson Lucy , Blachman-Braun Ruben , Patel Premal
Published: July 2023

Many undergraduate students are newly sexually active adults with unsafe sexual practices. While sexual education curriculums exist, students’ understanding of reproductive and sexual health is unknown. We sought to assess undergraduate students' knowledge and attitudes on reproductive and sexual health. Our aim was to identify variables associated with knowledge deficiencies.

A novel, cross-sectional questionnaire assessing knowledge and attitudes on reproductive and sexual health was distributed online from January to March 2021 to undergraduate students at two universities. Local ethics board approval was obtained, participation was voluntary, and data was anonymized. Categorical variables and continuous variables were analyzed with Chi-squared tests and Kruskal-Wallis tests, respectively. Univariable and multivariable-adjusted logistic regression analysis were used to assess variables associated with knowledge differences.

There were 309 respondents out of approximately 28,816 possible undergraduate students (n=309, response rate 1.1%). There were significant differences in knowledge scores with age (p=0.012), location of high school completion (p=0.004), and university attended (p=0.044). On multivariate analysis, higher knowledge scores were associated with identifying as female (male OR: 0.39, 95% CI: 0.18–0.87; p=0.021), older age (age ≥22 years OR: 4.07, 95% CI: 1.35–12.26; p=0.012), and university attended (University of Manitoba OR: 1.97, 95% CI: 1.11–3.49; p=0.021). On subgroup analysis, family SES was associated with higher sexually transmitted infection (STI) knowledge scores (OR: 2.19, 95% CI: 1.07–4.48; p=0.032). Few felt that their post-secondary education on contraception/family planning (26.2%), STIs (34.6%), and infertility (4.5%) was adequate.

Undergraduate students face unique barriers in obtaining adequate reproductive and sexual health knowledge. In particular, younger males who attend smaller universities, and possibly those who are from lower SES, may be at greater risk of negative outcomes. We highlight the need for improved access to education and supports to assist undergraduate students in making more informed decisions.
Planning, Implementing, and Evaluating Hepatitis C Virus Elimination via Collaborative Community-based Care Cascade: Age-period-cohort Model for Estimating Demand from Antecedent Anti-HCV Survey
Authors: Lin Ting-Yu , Jen Hsiao-Hsuan , Hu Tsung-Hui , Yao Yu-Ching , Chen Tony Hsiu-Hsi , Yen Amy Ming-Fang , Yeh Yen-Po
Published: July 2023

Background Estimating the demand for HCV care cascade plays an important role in planning, monitoring, and assessing the performance of introducing a new community-based hepatitis C virus (HCV) elimination program but such an analytic and systematic approach has been barley addressed.Methods A new collaborative care program for HCV elimination in the Changhua Community of Taiwan has been offered to a total of 895,353 residents since 2018. To grasp the variation of demand for HCV care cascade across demographic and geographic features in the planning stage, we applied the age-period-cohort spatial model to the antecedent anti-HCV survey enrolling 123,617 participants aged 30 years or older between 2005 and 2018. Based on this precise denominator, we then employed a “before-and-after” study design to routinely evaluate whether the WHO criteria of 72% successful treatments could be reached.Results The overall demand for HCV care cascade was 4.28% (HCV infection) of the underlying population but a declining trend was noted. The early cohort had a higher demand whereas the demand of the young cohort decreased with each passing year. The demand also differed by township. The demand, allowing for these variations, for antiviral treatment was 22,362, yielding the WHO target of 12,880 for achieving HCV elimination. With 11,844 successful treatments, the effectiveness of elimination has already reached 92% (11,844/12,880) by the end of 2022.Conclusions The demand for HCV care cascade allows health care decision-makers to timely and properly assess the performance of a novel community-based collaborative care program in achieving HCV elimination.
Identification of a novel hypermethylation marker, ZSCAN18, and construction of a diagnostic model in cervical cancer
Authors: Yang Jinhao , Chen Shuang , Wang Ping , Zhao Jing , Shao Heng , Wang Rong
Published: July 2023

Background
Cervical cancer is a common malignant tumor in women that seriously threatens women’s lives and health. DNA methylation markers have been reported to be related to cervical cancer. Therefore, to find more biomarkers, we adopt a “dry- and wet-lab” strategy that combines bioinformatics, machine learning and experimental methods for novel methylation biomarker identification.
Results
According to the data of cervical cancer samples from TCGA and GEO, 18 differentially methylated CpGs (DMCs) were obtained by integration analysis of the methylome and transcriptome. After assessment through the ROC curve in both the identification cohort (n = 349) and validation cohort (n = 414) from datasets, 5/18 top CpG sites were obtained as potential methylation biomarkers. Subsequently, a series of validation experiments were performed on 3/5 CpG sites which were all located in the promoter of ZSCAN18. First, pyrosequencing results showed that the methylation level of the ZSCAN18 promoter was significantly higher in cervical cancer tissues than in normal tissues (△β value > 0.33, P < 0.05). Then, the methylation PCR (MSP) results showed that the hypermethylation rate in cervical cancer tissues was 80%, which was significantly more than 30% in normal tissues (P < 0.05). Eventually, the quantitative methylation PCR (QMSP) results in cervical thinprep cytologic test (TCT) samples of different lesion stages showed that both the level and positivity of ZSCAN18 methylation increased with the grade of cervical lesions, and the positivity rate was up to 77.8% (21/27) in cancer samples. Further diagnosis models showed that the ridge regression model (RR) had the best performance of the six machine learning models, with AUC areas of 0.9421 and 1.0000 in the validation and mock test cohorts, respectively. Functional analysis demonstrated that overexpression of ZSCAN18 repressed the proliferation of cervical cancer cells (P < 0.05).
Conclusions
In this study, we established a rapid, effective and systemic research strategy to screen novel methylation markers for cervical cancer. The level of ZSCAN18 promoter methylation increases with the severity of cervical lesions and can be used as a DNA methylation biomarker for cervical cancer. The diagnostic model can improve the diagnostic ability.
Water Can Copy and Reproduce the Size of its Clusters and Other Molecules
Authors: Shevchenko Igor V.
Published: July 2023

Water dissolved in an organic solvent does not decompose into individual molecules, but forms clusters, the size of which can vary from a few water molecules to several hundreds. If bulk water is added to acetonitrile containing a small amount of water clusters, it will copy the size of these clusters and reproduce them in large numbers. Small clusters are much more reactive than large clusters because they contain more free hydroxyl groups. Therefore, depending on the size of the initial clusters in the solvent, the added water may turn into a large number of small active clusters, or a small number of large passive clusters. As a result, the rate of hydrolytic reactions with the same water added to acetonitrile can vary up to 500 times. Water can also form clusters upon contact with organic molecules.
Identification and validation of seed dormancy loci and candidate genes, and construction of regulatory networks by WGCNA in maize introgression lines
Authors: Ma Xiaolin , Feng Liqing , Tao Anyan , Zenda Tinashe , He Yuan , Zhang Daxiao , Duan Huijun , Tao yongsheng
Published: July 2023

Seed dormancy (SD) and pre-harvest sprouting (PHS) affect yield, grain and hybrid quality in seed production. Therefore, identification of genetic and regulatory pathways underlying PHS and SD is key to gene function analysis, allelic variation mining and genetic improvement. In this study, 78,360 SNPs by SLAF-seq of 230 maize backcross introgression lines (ILs), PHS under five environments were used to conduct GWAS (genome wide association study) (a threshold of 1/n), and seventeen unreported PHS QTLs were obtained, including eleven QTLs with PVE >10% and three QTLs under multiple environments. Two QTL loci were co-located between the other two genetic mapping methods. Using differential gene expression analyses at two stages of grain development, gene functional analysis of Arabidopsismutants, and gene functional analysis in the QTL region, seventeen PHS QTL-linked candidate genes were identified, and their five molecular regulatory networks constructed. Based on the Arabidopsis T-DNA mutations, three candidate genes were shown to regulate for SD and PHS. Meanwhile, using RNA-seq of grain development, The weighted correlation network analysis (WGCNA) was performed, deducing five regulatory pathways and target genes that regulate PHS and SD. Based on the conjoint analysis of GWAS and WGCNA, four pathways, nine target proteins and target genes were revealed, most of which regulate cell wall metabolism, cell proliferation and seed dehydration tolerance. This has important theoretical and practical significance for elucidating the genetic basis of maize PHS and SD, as well as mining of genetic resources and genetic improvement of traits.
Effect of Agrotechnical Measures on Chemical Composition of Early Potato Tubers
Authors: Sreć Zorana , Vujasinović Vuk , Mišković Anđelko , Mrkonjić Zorica , Bojović Mirjana , Nikolić Olivera , Vasić Vesna
Published: July 2023

Potatoes hold a significant position as one of the most important crops. Their value lies not only in their nutritional composition but also in their function as raw materials for various processing purposes. Furthermore, the cultivation of early potatoes carries considerable agrotechnical importance due to their ability to serve as the initial crop in intensive crop rotation, optimizing the utilization of agricultural soil.
The primary objective of its production is to reach a consistent and high yield of premium quality. Additionally, the aim is to enter the market as early as possible and maximize profitability. To achieve these goals, producers utilize specific agrotechnical measures such as mulching and plant covering to ensure earlier and safer production, thus maximizing profits.
Our research aimed to determine the impact of different agrotechnical measures (biodegradable mulching, agrotextile, low tunnel) on the chemical composition of early potato tubers.
A three-year field experiment was managed in Begeč with two early potato cultivars, Cleopatra and Riviera. The tested agrotechnical measures significantly influenced the quality of early potatoes, hence the increase in the content of dry matter, starch, vitamin C, cellulose, and ash in the tubers and on reduction of sugar and nitrate content.
Competition between stochastic neuropeptide signals calibrates the rate of satiation
Authors: Andermann Mark , Zhang Stephen , Kim Angela , Madara Joseph , Zhu Paula , Christenson Lauren , Lutas Andrew , Kalugin Peter , Jin Yihan , Pal Akash , Tian Lin , Lowell Bradford
Published: July 2023

We investigated how transmission of hunger- and satiety-promoting neuropeptides, NPY and αMSH, is integrated at the level of intracellular signaling to control feeding. Receptors for these peptides use the second messenger cAMP. How cAMP integrates opposing peptide signals to regulate energy balance, and the in vivo spatiotemporal dynamics of endogenous peptidergic signaling, remain largely unknown. We show that AgRP axon stimulation in the paraventricular hypothalamus evokes probabilistic NPY release that triggers stochastic cAMP decrements in downstream MC4R-expressing neurons (PVHMC4R). Meanwhile, POMC axon stimulation triggers stochastic, αMSH-dependent cAMP increments. Release of either peptide impacts a ~100 µm diameter region, and when these peptide signals overlap, they compete to control cAMP. The competition is reflected by hunger-state-dependent differences in the amplitude and persistence of cAMP transients: hunger peptides are more efficacious in the fasted state, satiety peptides in the fed state. Feeding resolves the competition by simultaneously elevating αMSH release and suppressing NPY release, thereby sustaining elevated cAMP in PVHMC4R neurons. In turn, cAMP potentiates feeding-related excitatory inputs and promotes satiation across minutes. Our findings highlight how biochemical integration of opposing, quantal peptide signals during energy intake orchestrates a gradual transition between stable states of hunger and satiety.
Form deviation and surface quality of additively manufactured propellers and their associated acoustic and aerodynamic performance
Authors: Chavez-Tolentino Cesar , Li Xinrong , Siller Hector R , Sadat Hamid
Published: July 2023

This paper explores the effects of surface texture on noise response and propeller-media interaction for additively manufactured (AM) features of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV) rotary propellers. The microgeometry nature of material extrusion (ME), molding in additively manufactured molds, and vat polymerization (VP) processes was captured with areal texture measurements, and further aerodynamic and acoustic tests allowed to differentiate among these AM technologies. Three layer thickness values of 50 µm, 125 µm and 254 µm were tested on fabricated rotary blades at eight different rotational speeds ranging from 4000 RPM to 7500 RPM by increments of 500 RPM; measuring their thrust, torque, vibration and sound pressure level (SPL). The experimental results showed the overall sound pressure level (OASPL) is mostly constant around the recording microphones. Surface roughness and RPM were the main factors that affect performance. AM propellers exhibited a thrust loss with an associated OASPL decrease; with blades fabricated via VP having the least form deviation and best surface quality, outperforming other specimens compared against the commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) baseline. Expected advantages of using VP over COTS include onsite production and customization.
Efficient Removal of Reactive Textile Dye using Electro-Fenton Process: Response Surface Methodology Approach
Authors: Karabacakoğlu Belgin , Karaduman Serhat
Published: July 2023

Electro-Fenton (EF) is a system where electrooxidation and electrocoagulation come together. In the EF method, it is aimed at creating OH radicals in an electrochemical cell by catalyzing H2O2with Fe2+ions. In this study, optimization of process variables for the removal of reactive azo dye (reactive yellow 145) from aqueous solution by the electro-Fenton method was carried out using response surface methodology. The percentage of dye removal and energy consumption were selected as the response functions for the 5 variables determined as voltage, H2O2concentration, pH, electrode spacing, and processing time. As a result of 32 experiments determined by the Design Expert 13 program, the effect of variables on response functions was examined separately and together. 10 V voltage to 99.4%, which is the highest removal; pH 2.5; 1 cm electrode range; 1 mL H2O2addition; and 22.16 Wh/L energy consumption in a 70-min treatment time were reached. The optimum values of the variables proposed by the program to ensure the highest dye removal efficiency (approximately 93%) and the lowest energy consumption (approx. 3.4 Wh/L) are approximately 9.4 V voltage, pH 3.7, 2.5 cm electrode range, 1 mL H2O2addition, and a 40-minute treatment time.
Approximate solutions of optimal control problems for a fractional stochastic integro-differential inclusion with Rosenblatt process
Authors: Yan Zuomao
Published: July 2023

This work is devoted to establish the optimal solutions of optimal control problems for a class of fractional impulsive stochastic integro-differential inclusions with Rosenblatt process and infinite delay in Hilbert spaces. Firstly, using the fractional calculus, the measure of noncom-pactness, properties of fractional resolvent operators and a fixed-point theorem, the existence of mild solutions for these systems is presented. Secondly, the existence of approximate solutions of optimal control problems without the hypotheses of compactness is also obtained. Finally, two examples are given to show applicability of our results.
2020 MR Subject Classification: 34A37; 60H15; 34K50; 26A33; 93E20
On the zeros of polynomial with real coefficients
Authors: Ibrahim Mohammad Ibrahim Mir , Jamina Jamina Banoo
Published: July 2023

Lot of research work has been done regarding the classical theorem known as Eneström-Kakeya theorem concerning the regions containing zeros of a polynomial. This theorem states that if F(z) = ∑n λ=0 fλzλ is a polynomial with degree n with real coefficients satisfying 0 ≤ f0 ≤ f1 ≤ f2 ≤ · · · ≤ fn, then all the zeros of F(z) lie in |z| ≤ 1. In this article, we prove several extensions of this theorem which impose restrictions only on the coefficients f0, f1, · · · , fn−1 and leaves the coefficient fn to vary freely over the whole complex plane.
An Overview of the Basic Characterizations of Nonlinear Optical Single Crystals of Mandelic Acid S-alanine Hemihydrates – For Optoelectronic Applications
Authors: Sivakumar K. , Umarani P. , dhas Sahaya jude Sathiya , Usharani S.
Published: July 2023

Over the years, growing highly efficient crystals in performing multi-level applications has consistently consolidated its position whereby a good number of novel crystals are kept added such that the emerging technology keeps on moving to the next possible level. On this count, R-Mandelic acid S-alanine hemihydrate (RMSA) single crystals with nonlinear optical (NLO) activity were produced at 37°C by the solvent evaporation technique. X-ray diffraction assessment on the single crystal as well as in the powder form was used to estimate the lattice constants. The crystal structure of RMSA is found to be triclinic. According to the transmission spectrum, RMSA's UV cutoff wavelength is 268 nm. Using FTIR spectroscopy, the vibrations of functional groups were clarified. The 13C-NMR spectroscopy was used to determine the molecular structure of RMSA. The Kurtz-Perry SHG test revealed that SHG was existent at a considerable level. When RMSA is compared to pure alanine, the SHG efficiency is discovered to be higher. Utilizing the He-Ne laser and single-beam Z-scan technology, a third-order nonlinear optical investigation was carried out. Positive nonlinearity in RMSA was revealed by a closed-aperture approach, while reverse saturation was revealed by an open-aperture analysis. The obtained results establish the possibility of RMSA as a crystal to be used in optoelectronic and optical device applications to obtain output with high efficiency.
Prognostic impact of primary tumor location in colorectal liver metastases - right-sided colon versus left-sided colon versus rectum: a single-center retrospective study
Authors: Guo Hui-Long , Chen Jing-Yao , Tang You-Zhen , Zeng Qian-Lin , Hu Zhen , Zhang Yi-Fan , Xiang Song , Li Ming-Zhe , He Yu-Long , Wu Wen-Hui
Published: July 2023

Purpose Currently, right colon cancer (RCC), left colon cancer (LCC), and rectal cancer (REC) are typically considered as different tumor entities when discussed. The curative effect and different prognoses of patients with colorectal liver metastases (CRLM) whom underwent simultaneous radical surgery are studied based on the site of the primary tumor. Methods This study analyzed 215 patients with CRLM at the First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University and were treated with radical surgery from 2008 to 2021. All data were analyzed by SPSS. Results Ratio of right colon liver metastasis (RCLM) of longitudinal diameter of primary tumor ≥ 5cm was more than left colon liver metastasis (LCLM) and rectal cancer liver metastasis (ReCLM) (61.0% versus 34.3% versus 33.3%, p = 0.001), and similarly for Percentage circumference of intestinal wall involved=1 (74.6% versus 57.8% versus 50.0%, p = 0.021).The three-year overall survival (OS) of RCLM group was significantly less than LCLM group and ReCLM group (37.5% versus 64.7% versus 62.5%, p = 0.016). The univariate and Multivariate analysis showed Percentage circumference of intestinal wall involved, lymph node metastasis and CA199 were the independent risk factors for OS of RCLM, and Percentage circumference of intestinal wall involved and CA199 were the independent risk factors for DFS of CRLM. Conclusion Primary tumors should be considered when analyzing the outcomes of CRLM.
New contribution to the biostratigraphy of Naopurdan limestone unit (Eocene), Bulfat area, Sulaimaniyah, Kurdistan Region, NE Iraq.
Authors: Ghafor Imad , Muhammad Hemn
Published: July 2023

Forty- nine samples were collected for a biostratigraphic study of the Naouprdan limestone unit to determine the age of its strata. The studied section is located within the Zagros High Fold and Thrust Belt. The lithology of the succession here is composed of grey fine-grain of limestone withNummulitesandAlveoloina,the whole section is highly deformed and fractured. Hence, for the first time, this limestone unit describes in detail; it is a 48 m bed of grey fine-grain, Alveolinidae-Nummulitidae limestone. It bears a frequent number of large benthic foraminifera that are concentrated within the limestone bed. It is detected within the Naopurdan succession from the Bulfat area, Sulaimaniyah, Kurdistan Region/northeastern Iraq. The identified-benthic foraminifera are of the groups: Nummulitidae; Alveolinidae; Acervulinidae; Acervulinidae; Rotaliidae; Linderinidae; Linderinidae; Hauerinidae; Textulariidae; Textulariidae. A detailed study of the benthic foraminiferal assemblages of the limestone unit revealed the occurrences of (104) species of benthic foraminifera belonging to (11) genera. The stratigraphic distribution of these species permits the recognition of four biozones. These are from the lower to upper part of the section:Alveolina oblonga-Nummulites djokdjokartaeInterval Zone,Nummulites djokdjokartaeTotal Range Zone,Nummulites fabianiTotal Range Zone andAlveolina leupoldi-Alveolina ellipticaInterval Zone. This study demonstrates that the lithology of this limestone bed is equivalent to the Nummulitic Naopurdan group of the Zagros Low Fold and Thrust Belt since they have similar lithology and fossil contents. This section has not previously been described.
Surgery-induced necrotizing scleritis after vitrectomy with removal of dislocated intraocular lens and secondary iris-claw IOL implantation
Authors: Mártires Pablo González de los , Pérez Gonzalo Guerrero , Bujanda Iñigo Les , Guerra Iñaki Elejalde , Mulero Henar Heras , Silva Esther Compains
Published: July 2023

Purpose To report a surgical-induced necrotizing scleritis, as well as its medical and surgical management.Methods Case-reportResults An 88 year-old patient with a three-day severe single-left-eye ocular pain. One-time surgery involving PPV with removal of dislocated intraocular lens and secondary implantation of iris-claw Artisan® lens was performed six months earlier. Visual acuity of 20/100. Slit-lamp examination revealed a 5x2 mm non-suppurative superior scleral defect. Empirical topical antibiotic treatment with dexamethasone, as well as oral doxycycline was started. Infectious and autoimmune diseases were ruled out. Non-infectious scleritis treatment was conducted with intravenous Methylprednisolone three day pulses, followed by weekly tapered Prednisone and intramuscular Methotrexate. However, one month after the diagnosis, the defect was worsened; hence, a heterologous scleral patch graft was performed and, days after the intervention, Adalimumab was initiated. To date, six months later, remains with proper scleral patch, a diary low-dose Prednisone, and spacing Adalimumab treatment.Conclusion: Surgery-induced necrotizing scleritis is a severe condition that compromise the ocular and visual integrity. Proper diagnosis, as well as early treatment is required to achieve remission, prevent relapses, and avoid structural complications. In refractory cases, anti-TNF-α immunotherapy associated with surgical tectonic graft interventions can achieve promising results.
The efficacy of 308-nm excimer laser monotherapy versus combined with topical bimatoprost 0.03% solution for the treatment of facial vitiligo
Authors: Ghiasi Maryam , Isazade Ahdie , Marhamati Tahereh , Lajevardi Vahideh , Shakoei Safoura
Published: July 2023

Vitiligo is a commonly acquired autoimmune pigmentary disorder. Some patients are resistant to conventional treatments, leading to the search for combination therapies. This study aimed to compare the efficacy of 308-nm excimer laser monotherapy versus combined treatment with topical bimatoprost 0.03% in patients with vitiligo on the face. This study was conducted on patients with facial vitiligo referred to a hospital in Tehran, Iran. The study included 38 patients who were randomly allocated to either the intervention group (18 patients) or the control group (20 patients). Both groups received treatment with a 308-nm excimer laser twice a week for 15 weeks. In addition, the intervention group received treatment with bimatoprost 0.03% solution once daily for 15 weeks. The patients were visited at the end of every 5 weeks and after the 15th week. The efficacy of the treatments using the scale for assessment of improvement, visual analog scale satisfaction (VASS), and visual analog scale improvement (VASI) were evaluated. The study also evaluated the side effects of treatment. The average scores for the measures over time indicated that VASI scores after the 30th treatment session (P = 0.04), VASS scores after the 20th session (P = 0.04) and 30th session (P = 0.03), and SAI scores after the 30th session (P = 0.03) were significantly higher in the intervention group than in the control group. The addition of bimatoprost 0.03% to the treatment regimen may improve the outcomes of patients with facial vitiligo who are resistant to conventional treatments.