bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Multidimensional symptoms and comprehensive diagnosis of pediatric narcolepsy combined with sleep apnea and two years follow-up: a case report
Authors: Xiong Yiting , Chen Jie , Si Jiayue , he chunqin , Wang Xuehua , Li Zhe , Zhang Xinyang , Bai Yu , Hu Yuxin , Zhou Rong , Na Tong , Li Suxia , Zhang Zifeng , Lu Lin , Wang Xueqin
Published: February 2024

Introduction: The characteristics of narcolepsy onset in children differs significantly from those of adults, and easily misdiagnosed for their multidimensional symptoms and concomitant diseases.
Case Report and Results: A 6-year-old girl with multidimensional symptoms: typical symptoms of mood disorder, atypical symptoms of narcolepsy combined with rapid eye movement (REM) sleep behavioral disorder (RBD) and periodic limb movement (PLM), was diagnosed with narcolepsy type 1 and complex sleep apnea. Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) caused by adenoid and tonsillar hypertrophy at baseline and central sleep apnea (CSA) after surgery of adenoid and tonsillar. After adenoidectomy and tonsillectomy, OSA remitted, excessive daytime sleepiness (EDS), RBD symptoms, mental symptoms and sleep structure were improved, but more PLMs and CSA presented and SORE multiple sleep latency test (MSLT) increased in this patient. During 2 years follow up, only behavioral managements were performed. The child had good social function, significant improvement in subjective EDS, occasional nocturnal sleep behavior abnormalities rated by scales two years later.
Conclusion: It was important to monitor in time with multidimensional symptoms and follow up for a longer time during multidisciplinary treatments in children with narcolepsy. Exploration of regular personalized behavioral interventions might be benefit for them.
Improving genetic risk modeling of dementia from real-world data in underrepresented populations
Authors: Chang Timothy , Fu Mingzhou , Valiente-Banuet Leopoldo , Wadhwa Satpal , Pasaniuc Bogdan , Vossel Keith
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND: Genetic risk modeling for dementia offers significant benefits, but studies based on real-world data, particularly for underrepresented populations, are limited.
METHODS: We employed an Elastic Net model for dementia risk prediction using single-nucleotide polymorphisms prioritized by functional genomic data from multiple neurodegenerative disease genome-wide association studies. We compared this model with APOE and polygenic risk score models across genetic ancestry groups, using electronic health records from UCLA Health for discovery and All of Us cohort for validation.
RESULTS: Our model significantly outperforms other models across multiple ancestries, improving the area-under-precision-recall curve by 21-61% and the area-under-the-receiver-operating characteristic by 10-21% compared to the APOEand the polygenic risk score models. We identified shared and ancestry-specific risk genes and biological pathways, reinforcing and adding to existing knowledge.
CONCLUSIONS: Our study highlights benefits of integrating functional mapping, multiple neurodegenerative diseases, and machine learning for genetic risk models in diverse populations. Our findings hold potential for refining precision medicine strategies in dementia diagnosis.
The effect of asymmetric setback of bilateral sagittal split ramus osteotomy on the condyle in patients with skeletal Class III lateral displacement
Authors: Zeng Li , Wu Yongjia , Zhou Mengqi , Bai Xiaofeng , Hu Lingling , Chen Xuepeng
Published: February 2024

Objectives
The aim of this study was to investigate the postoperative changes of the condyle in patients with skeletal Class III malocclusion and mandibular lateral displacement (MLD), and to study the relationship between asymmetric mandibular setback and condylar rotation.
Materials and methods
A total of thirty patients diagnosed with skeletal Class III malocclusion and MLD underwent orthodontic and orthognathic treatment. Cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) images were obtained in 3 different time points. Condylar measurements were performed using 3D Slicer software. The correlation between asymmetric mandibular setback and condylar rotation was analyzed.
Results
Asymmetry of condylar morphology and position were observed. Condyles on both sides displaced laterally, posteriorly, and inferiorly, rotating inward YAW, rotating outward ROLL for the deviation side (DS) condyle and inward ROLL for the deviation opposite side (DOS) condyle during T1-T2. Condyles on both sides displaced mesially, anteriorly, and superiorly, rotating outward YAW and inward ROLL during T2-T3. The direction of the condylar rotation during T1-T3 was consistent with T1-T2. Asymmetric mandibular setback was correlated with inward YAW and inward ROLL of the DOS condyle, as well as outward ROLL of the DS condyle.
Conclusions
This study demonstrated that postoperative displacement and rotation of the condyles were observed in patients with skeletal Class III malocclusion and MLD. Additionally, there was a correlation between asymmetric mandibular setback and condylar rotation.
Clinical relevance
When developing a surgical plan to correct MLD through asymmetric mandibular setback, the adverse displacement and rotation of the condyle should be considered to avoid postoperative complications.
When the lava meets the sea: emplacement of the 2-4 ka San Bartolo lava flow field, Stromboli volcano (Italy)
Authors: Shajahan Rasia , Harris Andrew J L , Zanella Elena , Gurioli Lucia , Test Claudio Robustelli , Calvari Sonia , Drovanti Lodovico
Published: February 2024

When a lava flow enters a body of water, either a lake, sea, river or ocean, explosive interaction may arise. However, when it is an 'a'ā lava flow entering water, a more complex interaction occurs, that is very poorly described and documented in literature. In this paper we analysed the 2–4 ka San Bartolo lava flow field emplaced on the north flank of Stromboli volcano, Italy. The lava flow field extends from ~ 650 m elevation, where the eruptive fissure emplaced following the main structural trend of the island, to the NE coast through two prominent lava channels at middle elevation. Along the coast the lava flow field expands to form a lava delta ~ 1 km wide characterized by 16 lava ‘Flow’ units. We performed a field survey to characterize the features of lava entering the sea and the associated formation of different components, and magnetic measurements to infer the flow fabrics and emplacement process of the lava flow system. We measured the density, porosity and connectivity of several specimens to analyse the effect of lava-water interaction on the content in vesicles and their connectivity, and conducted a macroscopic componentry analysis (clast count) at selected sites to infer the character of the eroded offshore segment of the lava flow field and its component flow units. The collected data allowed us to define the main components of a lava delta fed by 'a'ā lava flows, with its channels, littoral units, ramps, lava tubes, and inflated pāhoehoe flows controlled by the arterial 'a'ā flow fronts. The spatial organization of these components allowed us to build a 3-steps model for 'a'ā entering a water. The initial stage corresponds to the entry of channel-fed 'a'ā lava flow into the sea which fragments to form metric blocks of 'a'ā lava. Continued lava supply to the foreshore causes flow units to stall while spreading over this substrate. Subsequent 'a'ā lava flow units ramp up behind the stalled flow front barrier. Lava tubes extending through the stalled flow barrier feed the seaward extension of a bench made of several pāhoehoe flow units.
A study on the driving path of farmers' participation in physical activity and its impact on happiness
Authors: Wang Haixia , Ma Shuqing , Li Qiuying
Published: February 2024

Based on the theoretical framework of socioecology, this study systematically examines the antecedent grouping patterns of farmers' participation in physical activity and their effects on well-being in 19 provinces of China using fuzzy set qualitative comparative analysis (fsQCA) and benchmark regression methods. The results of the study indicate that the motivation to promote the participation of farmers in physical activity is not driven by a single factor but instead relies on the synergistic effect of multiple factors. There are seven different groupings that drive farmers to participate in physical activity, which can be categorized into three types of driving pathways: individual-led dominant, ecological interdependence, and multiple synergistic linkages. Under these three types of driving paths, the well-being of farmers significantly improves, with the multiple synergistic linkage path having a better effect than the ecological interdependence type and the individual-led path.
Cerebellar theta burst stimulation impairs working memory
Authors: Raies Nasem , Nankoo Jean-Francois , Madan Christopher R , Chen Robert
Published: February 2024

Introduction
Working memory refers to the process of temporarily storing and manipulating information. The role of the cerebellum in working memory is thought to be achieved through its connections with the prefrontal cortex. Previous studies showed that theta burst stimulation (TBS), a form of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation, of the cerebellum changes its functional connectivity with the prefrontal cortex. Specifically, excitatory intermittent TBS (iTBS) increases, whereas inhibitory continuous TBS (cTBS) decreases this functional connectivity. We hypothesized that iTBS on the cerebellum will improve working memory, whereas cTBS will disrupt it.
Methods
Sixteen healthy participants (10 women) participated in this study. Bilateral cerebellar stimulation was applied with a figure-of-eight coil at 3 cm lateral and 1 cm below the inion. The participants received iTBS, cTBS, and sham iTBS in three separate sessions in random order. Within 30 minutes after TBS, the participants performed four working memory tasks: letter 1-Back and 2-Back, digit span forward, and digit span backward.
Results
Repeated measures analysis of variance revealed a significant effect of the type of stimulation (iTBS/cTBS/Sham) on performance in the digit span backward task (p = 0.02). The planned comparison showed that the cTBS condition had significantly lower scores than the sham condition (p = 0.01). iTBS and cTBS did not affect performance in the 1- and 2-Back and the digit span forward tasks compared to sham stimulation.
Conclusion
The findings support the hypothesis that the cerebellum is involved in working memory, and this contribution may be disrupted by cTBS.
Jujubae Fructus extract prolongs lifespan and improves stress tolerance in Caenorhabditis elegans dependent on DAF-16/SOD-3
Authors: zhang zhi , Li Jiajia , Li Feng , Wang Tao , Luo Xiaoyan , Li Bing , You Yilin , Wu Changjing , Liu Xiaomeng
Published: February 2024

Jujubae Fructus, the fruit of Ziziphus jujuba Mill has been used as one of the medicine food homology species for thousands of years in China. Studies have shown that the active ingredients of Jujubae Fructus have a variety of biological effects, but its role in the aging process still lacks knowledge. Here, we investigated the effect of Jujubae Fructus extract (JE) on C. elegans lifespan and its potential mechanism. The lifespan of C. elegans treated with JE was signifificantly increased in a dose-dependent manner. In addition, JE treatment prolonged the reproductive period and increased normal activity during aging in C. elegans. Similarly, JE supplementation also enhanced the resistance to heat and oxidative stress in C. elegans. Furthermore, the mutant worms' lifespan assays demonstrated that JE requires daf-16 to prolong lifespan. DAF-16::GFP analysis of TJ356 showed that JE treatment translocates DAF-16::GFP to nucleus in transgenic worms. By analyzing the downstream of daf-16, we identify that JE may regulate sod3 downstream of daf-16. mutant worms' lifespan and transgenic reporter gene expression assays revealed that increasing SOD-3 expression was critical for extending longevity in C. elegans with JE therapy. Collectively, these data indicate that JE may have an important role in C. elegans longevity that is dependent on DAF-16 and SOD-3.
Advanced Mapping of Inorganic Treatments on Porous Carbonate Stones by Combined Synchrotron Radiation High Lateral μXRPD and μXRF
Authors: Massinelli Giulia , Marinoni Nicoletta , Colombo Chiara , Gatta Giacomo Diego , Realini Marco , Burghammer Manfred , Possenti Elena
Published: February 2024

Understanding the effects of consolidating inorganic mineral treatments on carbonate stones of cultural heritage, on the nature and distribution of newly formed products within the matrix, poses a significant challenge in Heritage Science and Conservation Science. Existing analytical methods often fail to deliver spatial and compositional insights into the newly formed crystalline phases with the appropriate high lateral resolution. In this study, we explore the capabilities and limitations of synchrotron radiation (SR) micro-X-ray powder diffraction (µXRPD) mapping combined with micro-X-ray fluorescence (µXRF) to give insight into compounds formed following the application of ammonium oxalate (AmOx) and diammonium phosphate-based (DAP) solutions on porous carbonate stone. Ultimately, the integration of µXRPD mapping and µXRF analysis proved itself a powerful asset in providing precise qualitative and quantitative data on the newly formed phases, in the case of both calcium oxalates (CaOxs) and calcium phosphates (CaPs), and their complex stratigraphic distribution, thus opening a new route for applications to a more comprehensive study of inorganic treatments applied to carbonate substrates.
Global Compilation and Analysis of Human Crush Fatalities (1900- 2017)
Authors: Tebbens S. F. , Guha T.
Published: February 2024

This work compiles a global record of 123 fatal human crush events between 1900 and 2017. Completeness of the compiled record appears to improve through time, with more events of all sizes recorded in more recent decades. The three countries with the most documented fatal crush events are, in decreasing order, India, United States and Saudi Arabia, while the countries with the most documented fatalities, in decreasing order, are Saudi Arabia, India, and Iraq. The fatality record of 123 global crush events between 1900 and 2017 is found to exhibit power law frequency-size scaling. Using a statistical approach often applied to earthquakes, the parameters of the scaling relationship are used as the basis for probabilistic forecasting of the recurrence interval of events with 100 and 1000 fatalities. Based on the 2003 to 2017 record, events with 100 or more fatalities are forecast to have a global recurrence interval of every 1.3 years (± 1 standard deviation 1.0 to 1.8 years) and events with 1,000 or more fatalities are forecast to have a global recurrence interval of every 7.4 years (± 1 standard deviation range of 4.7 to 9.1 years). The primary contributions of this work are a compilation of global fatal crush events in the past century and the finding that fatalities associated with global fatal crush events follow power law scaling.
Transcriptome and metabolome analysis of low temperature storage on fruit quality deterioration of mangoes
Authors: Cong Hanqing , Huo Ting , Huang Xinran , Chen Yeyuan , Bai Yibo , Luo Haiyan , Fu Xiaona , Wang Rongxiang , Guan Pingyin , Zafar Muhammad Mubashar , Qiao Fei
Published: February 2024

Mango, a typical respiratory climacteric fruit, is susceptible to a short shelf life and quality deterioration during post-harvest ripening. Though low temperature can prolong the storage time significantly, its side effects on fruit quality remains to be elucidated. Through a combination of transcriptome and metabolome analyses, this study aimed to elucidate the effects of low-temperature storage on the biosynthesis of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), flavonoids, sucrose, and the degradation of organic acids. Carbohydrate-related metabolism maintained high activity under 13°C by up-regulating the expression of certain gene members in the neutral invertase (NI), sucrose phosphate synthase (SPS), and sucrose synthetase (SS) families. Similarly, low temperature suppressed the expression of an ethylene receptor (ETR) gene (mango007369), compensated by another member in ETR family (mango016667). The increased accumulation of flavonoids under l3°C aligned with the enhanced expression of genes related to flavonoid synthesis in mango fruit, such as F3H, F3’H and CHI. However, in comparison to storage at 30°C, low temperature storage reduced the total soluble solids (TSS) in the fruit, but increased the accumulation of several organic acids. Whereas low temperature almost entirely inhibited the synthesis of VOCs, which further pull down the commercial quality. The findings of this study revealed the impact of storage temperature on mango quality and offer insights for maintaining quality under low-temperature conditions.
EDNRB is Upregulated in Acutely Injured Cartilage following Topical Administration of Tranexamic Acid in Rats
Authors: Li Ming , Ren Dong , Hou Haowei , Lu Jian , Ren Guowei , Yao Shuangquan , Geng Lindan , Shi Zhenhua , Wang Pengcheng
Published: February 2024

Objective
The intra-articular injection of tranexamic acid (TXA) has been shown to be effective at reducing perioperative bleeding. However, the damage to human articular cartilage caused by TXA could contribute to posttraumatic osteoarthritis (PTOA) after acute cartilage injury. In the present study, we aimed to investigate the genes and molecular programmes controlling PTOA pathogenesis associated with TXA using RNA sequencing (RNA-seq).
Methods
We performed RNA-seq and computational analyses of cartilage tissues obtained from various groups of rats. The differentially expressed genes between the control group and each experimental group were collated to identify those genes that were regulated by TXA. We investigated the role of TXA in cartilage tissue degeneration using RT‒qPCR analysis and histological assays.
Results
We identified 3113 genes (1834 upregulated and 1279 downregulated) that were differentially expressed between the cartilage-subchondral bone damage group and the control group. Furthermore, 57 genes were differentially expressed (45 upregulated and 12 downregulated) between the cartilage damage group and the control group. EDNRB was identified in both sets of differentially expressed genes and was thus considered a gene specifically regulated by TXA. Upregulation of EDNRB mRNA in the TXA injection model was confirmed by RT‒qPCR. Notably, immunohistochemistry analysis revealed that EDNRB is involved in PTOA pathogenesis.
Conclusion
These study results suggest that the ETB receptor plays a pivotal role in cartilage degeneration after acute injury induced by topical administration of TXA and may be a new target for the development of therapies for this condition.
Machine Learning Methods for Adult OSAHS Risk Prediction
Authors: Ge Shanshan , Wu Kainan , Li Shuhui , Li Ruiling , Yang Caizheng
Published: February 2024

Background
Obstructive sleep apnea hypopnea syndrome (OSAHS) is a common disease that can cause multiple organ damage in the whole body. Our aim was to use machine learning (ML) to build an independent polysomnography (PSG) model to analyze risk factors and predict OSAHS.
Materials and Methods
Clinical data of 2064 snoring patients who underwent physical examination in the Health Management Center of the First Affiliated Hospital of Shanxi Medical University from July 2018 to July 2023 were retrospectively collected, involving 24 characteristic variables. Then they were randomly divided into training group and verification group according to the ratio of 7:3. By analyzing the importance of these features, it was concluded that LDL-C, Cr, common carotid artery plaque, A1c and BMI made major contributions to OSAHS. Moreover, five kinds of machine learning algorithm models such as logistic regression, support vector machine, Boosting, Random Forest and MLP were further established, and cross validation was used to adjust the model hyperparameters to determine the final prediction model. We compared the accuracy, Precision, Recall rate, F1-score and AUC indexes of the model, and finally obtained that MLP was the optimal model with an accuracy of 85.80%, Precision of 0.89, Recall of 0.75, F1-score of 0.82, and AUC of 0.938.
Conclusion
We established the risk prediction model of OSAHS using ML method, and proved that the MLP model performed best among the five ML models. This predictive model helps to identify patients with OSAHS and provide early, personalized diagnosis and treatment options.
Translation and adaptation of the person-centered maternity care scale to a Persian speaking population: A confirmatory factor analysis
Authors: Mohammadkhani Nafiseh
Published: February 2024

Background: Recognized as the most exhaustive multi-dimensional evaluation of women's person-centered experiences during childbirth, the Person-Centered Maternity Care (PCMC) Scale offers domain-specific insights into facets of care. This instrument has yet to be translated into Persian. Hence, this study purposed to translate and ascertain the reliability and validity of a Persian version of the PCMC scale for postpartum women in Iran.
Methods: A cross-sectional study was facilitated at multiple comprehensive health centers within Tehran, Iran from February 2022 until July 2022. Postpartum women within 7 days after childbirth who were referred to selected comprehensive health centers for newborn thyroid screening were conveniently sampled. The validation process for the questionnaire utilized confirmatory factor analysis (CFA), while it gauged convergent validity via factor loads, average variance extracted (AVE), along with composite reliability (CR). Discriminant credibility was evaluated utilizing HTMT alongside Fornell-Larcker Criteria. Data analysis procedures were conducted through IBM SPSS Statistics for Windows Version 16 and SMART PLS Statistics for Windows Version 4.0.9.9.
Results: All the items were within the acceptable range of factor loading, except for questions 3 of facility and 6 of dignity, which were removed from the model. The AVE values for all the variables were above 0.50 and the CR values were above 0.78, indicating convergent validity. On the horizontal loading table, all of the indicators met the conditions. Additionally, the findings validate that the HTMT indicator associated with all constructs remained below 0.9 which confirms divergent relevance pertaining to the survey tool under consideration. The composite reliability values also indicated good overall reliability for all the constructs, ranging from 0.78 to 0.91.
Conclusions: The results of the present study indicate that the Persian version of the PCMC is a reliable and valid tool for measuring person-centered maternity care in Persian-speaking populations.
Drivers of Future Extratropical Sea Surface Temperature Variability Changes in the North Pacific
Authors: Gunnarson Jacob , Stuecker Malte , Zhao Sen
Published: February 2024

Under anthropogenic warming, future changes to climate variability beyond specific modes such as the El Niño-Southern Oscillation (ENSO) have not been well-characterized. In the Community Earth System Model version 2 Large Ensemble (CESM2-LE) climate model, the future change to sea surface temperature (SST) variability (and correspondingly marine heatwave intensity) is spatially heterogeneous. We examined these projected changes (between 1960-2000 and 2060-2100) in the North Pacific using a local linear stochastic-deterministic model, which allowed us to quantify the effect of changes to three drivers on SST variability: ocean "memory" (the SST damping timescale), ENSO teleconnections, and stochastic noise forcing. The ocean memory declines in most areas, but lengthens in the central North Pacific. This change is primarily due to changes in air-sea feedbacks and ocean damping, with the shallowing mixed layer depth playing a secondary role. An eastward shift of the ENSO teleconnection pattern is primarily responsible for the pattern of SST variance change.
Realist evaluation of the impact of health mediation on underserved populations’ healthcare utilization and cancer screening uptake: the ECEMSo case study protocol
Authors: Richard Elodie , Perret Garance , Ramiz Leila , Chaves Frédérique Quirino , Cambon linda , Vandentorren Stéphanie , Fernandez Judith Martin
Published: February 2024

Background: Health mediation may foster underserved populations’ healthcare utilization. No study to date has demonstrated its effectiveness in an experimental context. The ECEMSo case study aims to identify the impact of health mediation on fostering healthcare utilization – in particular organized cancer screening uptake – by underserved populations living in informal housing (PLIH) in France. This paper describes the study protocol.
Methods: Grounded in a theory-based framework, the ECEMSo case study is a longitudinal mixed-method intervention study with a multi-center, multi-case explanatory sequential design. The study population comprises various participant profiles including health mediators, health workers, social workers, PLIH whom these professionals support, and other stakeholders concerned with underserved populations’ health issues. Participants will be recruited in several French regions and divided into three mixed participant profile groups. In group 1, health mediation and the ECEMSo intervention will be implemented. This intervention comprises knowledge mobilization to facilitate the structuring of health mediation throughout France, and the development of an action plan to facilitate cancer screening uptake by PLIH. In group 2, only health mediation will be implemented (i.e., no ECEMSo intervention). In group 3, neither health mediation nor the ECEMSo intervention will be implemented, but health and social workers will implement other health system navigation interventions.
Quantitative and qualitative data will be collected by interviewers through face-to-face questionnaires, interviews, observations, focus groups, and tracking tables of health mediation activities over six months. Data collection will be based on the health mediation conceptual framework. The calculated required number of participants includes 960 health mediation beneficiaries, 54 health mediators, 27 health and social workers, and many other stakeholders, identified through snowball sampling.
Discussion: In terms of evidence-based intervention research, this study will provide a comprehensive picture of the conditions under which health mediation has a positive effect on underserved populations’ healthcare utilization.
Trial registration numbers: NCT06180746 12/12/2023
Epigenetic erosion of H4K20me1 induced by inflammation drives aged stem cell ferroptosis.
Authors: Blanc Romeo , Shah Nidhi , Salama Noah , Meng Fanju , Mousaei Alireza , Chakkalakal Joe , Onukwufor John , Murphy Patrick , Calvi Laura , Dirksen Robert
Published: February 2024

Aging is associated with a decline in stem cell functionality and number across the organism. In this study, we aimed to further unravel Muscle Stem Cells (MuSCs) aging by assessing how systemic factors influence MuSC fate decisions through long-term epigenetic landscape remodelling. As aging is intricately linked to a pro-inflammatory shift, we studied the epigenetic effects of inflammatory signals in MuSCs and measured decreased H4K20me1 levels. This loss disrupts MuSC quiescence, largely through epigenetic silencing of Notch target genes. In the setting of inflammatory signals or aging, the lack of Kmt5a and the subsequent absence of de novo H4K20me1 culminate in cell death by ferroptosis. Aged MuSCs manifest abnormal iron metabolism and reduced Gpx4 levels, resulting in the accumulation of intracellular iron, increased reactive oxygen species, genomic instability, and lipid peroxidation. We showed that ferroptosis is the predominant mode of cell death in aged MuSCs, with remarkably high levels of lipid peroxidation; a phenomenon we also observed in aged hematopoietic stem cells. Implementing preventative strategies to inhibit systemic inflammation prevented aged MuSC ferroptosis, preserving their numbers and regenerative capabilities. This intervention significantly enhanced aged muscle regeneration and strength recovery and extended both lifespan and healthspan in mice. This study delineates a previously underappreciated fate trajectory for stem cell aging, and offers meaningful insights into the treatment of age-related disorders.
The impact of construction materials on indoor air quality and radiation levels in Al-Shatra, Dhi-Qar, Iraq
Authors: Elewee Aqeel A. , Alsaffar Mohammed S. , Alhous Shatha F. , Aswood Murtadha Sh.
Published: February 2024

Purpose the current study focuses on evaluating the level of natural radioactivity in fifteen samples taken from five different building materials in Al-Shatra, Dhi-Qar Governorate, Iraq. Methods used a sodium iodide detector NaI (TI). Results the average activities of 226Ra, 232Th and 40K are found to be 19.7 ± 6.7, 20.14 ± 3.3 and 232.24 ± 91Bqkg− 1, respectively. The computed mean radium equivalent activity was 66.63 Bqkg− 1, which is below the suggested threshold of 370 Bqkg− 1 established by OECD. The internal (Hin) and external hazard indices (Hex) have been determined to be lower than unity (< 1), as per the recommended safe level recognized by UNSCEAR. The average values of the absorbed dose rate (nGyh− 1), indoor annual effective dose (mSvy− 1), outdoor annual effective dose (mSvy− 1) and exposure rate of gamma-ray (µRh− 1)are also estimated to be 59.09,0.289,0.072 and148.076, respectively. Conclusion all these parameters are within the safe limits when compared to their equivalent world-permitted values, and hence, all types of building materials are considered safe and do not present a significant peril to the well-being of the populace.
Impact of Laser Radiation and Volatile Oils Mixture on Microbiological Quality of Beef Sausage during Cold Storage
Authors: abdraboh ahmed , Osheba Atef Saad , El-Sayed Helmy
Published: February 2024

This study was carried out to estimate antimicrobial activity of cinnamon, clove and rosemary essential oils and their mixture against three strains of Gram-negative bacteria, Escherichia coli, Salmonella typhimurium and Kelbsiella pneumonia; three strains of Gram–positive bacteria, Staphylococcus aureus, bacillus cereus and Listeria moncytogenes three fungi, Aspergillus niger, Aspergillus flavus and Fusarium moneflora and two yeasts, Candida albicans, Sacchromyces cerevisiae. Also, to study the effect of best volatile oils mixture concentration and best exposure time of laser radiation on microbiological attributes and shelf life of cold beef sausage. Results indicated that, volatile oils mixture had higher inhibitory effect than each volatile oil individually against all tested microbial strains. Volatile oils and their mixture could be arranged in descending order according to their antimicrobial potency as follows: volatile oil mixture ˃ cinnamon ˃ clove ˃ rosemary volatile oil. Also, microbial strains could be arranged descending according to their resistance to volatile oils as follows: gram-negative bacteria ˃ gram-positive bacteria ˃ yeasts ˃ molds. Microbial load (total bacterial count and yeast and mold counts ) of beef sausage decreased by exposure to laser radiation for 18 minutes (T1) and adding the volatile oil mixture at 500 ppm (T2) as well as volatile oils mixture and laser radiation combination (T3) when compared with control sample. Therefore, the treatment of beef sausage with volatile oil mixture and laser radiation combination was more effective in reduction of microbial load and extending the shelf life of beef sausage to 20 days at 4 ± 1ºC compared with sausage treated with volatile oils mixture only (15 days), sausage treated with laser rays only (10 days) and control sample (5 days).
Poly(L-glutamic acid) based composites for improved dual immune checkpoint blockade therapy
Authors: Xue Fuxin , Yao Haochen , Sun Jiali , Ren Xitong , Hu Junli , Shen Na , Tang Zhaohui
Published: February 2024

The immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) therapy, such as PD1/PDL1 blockade, is successful for robusting the duable response of patients. However, the response rate is less than 30%. In this study, we prepared polymer-Fc binding peptides-based PD1/PDL1 bispecific antibody (BsAb), which was constructed via the condensation reaction between side –COOH of poly(L-glutamic acid) (PGLU) and –NH2 of a double cyclic peptide Fc-III-4C, and mixed with αPD1 and αPDL1 monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) in an aqueous solution. The PD1/PDL1 BsAb forms a bridge between tumor cells and CD8+ T cells, persistently activating the CD8+ T cell to a greater degree, and results in a much stronger inhiation of tumor growth and a longer survival time of mice in mouse colon cancer model, than both the free mAb and free mixed mAbs. The tumor suppression rate of the BsAb was 90.1% and after 48 days, the survival rate is 83.3%. Thus, this study highlights an effective PD1/PDL1 BsAb synchronizing T cell engager and dual ICBs, facilitating and guiding theoretically the clinical ICB therapy.
Exploring Schatzker IV Tibial Plateau Fracture: Finite Element Analysis Study of Five Internal Fixation Methods
Authors: Zhou Zulong , Fang Run , Liu Yulong , Ning Rende
Published: February 2024

Purpose
This research aims to evaluate the stress and stability of Schatzker IV-C subtype tibial plateau fractures through finite element simulation, comparing various internal fixation techniques.
Methods
A 3D finite element model was created for a Schatzker IV C tibial plateau fracture, evaluating five internal fixation methods through computer simulations. The methods included: Medial Plate (Model 1), Medial Plate with Two Posterior Tension Screws (Model 2), Medial Plate with Two Lateral Tension Screws (Model 3), Dual Plates on Anterior and Posterior Medial Sides (Model 4), and Dual Plates on Medial and Lateral Sides (Model 5). To simulate the biomechanics of unilateral knee joint axial compression during normal adult gait, a substantial axial force of 1200N was applied, with 60% selectively distributed on the medial plateau. Comprehensive analyses focused on equivalent von Mises stress, displacement, and the Equivalent Graph illustrating stress-displacement characteristics for each fixation modality.
Results
The MTS model exhibits the highest peak stress of 139.45 MPa, coupled with a maximum displacement of 4.4945 mm, outperforming all other models. In contrast, the MPLT model has a lower peak stress and displacement of 96.08 MPa and 4.391 mm, respectively. This model stands out for having the smallest displacement among all models and significantly reduced maximum stress compared to the initial three groups. As for the three DPMs, their peak stresses are documented at 95.144, 91.46, and 92.58 MPa, accompanied by peak displacements of 4.3982, 4.4326, and 4.4382 mm, respectively.
Conclusion
The research findings suggest that Model 4 is the optimal treatment choice due to its minimal displacement, significantly reduced maximum stress compared to other models, and advantages such as minimal trauma for postoperative recovery. Double steel plate models exhibit low stress levels but lack outstanding displacement reduction, and their significant surgical trauma makes them a secondary choice. This study provides insights into the biomechanical performance of different internal fixation methods for Schatzker IV C tibial plateau fractures.
Post-procedure pain in preterm neonates undergoing retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) screening: A prospective cohort study
Authors: Verma Ankit , Singla Raman , Kumar Vivek , Chandra Purna , Chandra Parijat , Thukral Anu , Sankar Mari Jeeva , Agarwal Ramesh , Deorari Ashok
Published: February 2024

Objectives: To evaluate the pain intensity during 48 hours post retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) screening.
Design: Prospective cohort study
Settings: Level-III NICU in India
Participants: 83 Neonates undergoing first ROP screening
Main outcome measures: Pain assessment using the premature infant pain profile-revised (PIPP-R) score at baseline and 5minutes, 30minutes, 6-, 24-, and 48-hours post-procedure.
Results: The mean gestation and birth weight was 29.8(2.3) weeks and 1256(344) g respectively. The median (IQR) PIPP-R score at baseline was 0 which significantly increased to 10.5(8,12.5) 5min (immediately) after the procedure. At 30min and 6hours, scores were 7(5,8) and 4.5(3,5.5) respectively. After 24 and 48hours, it decreased to 3(0,5) and 0(0,4.5) respectively. Nearly 59%(95% CI:40%–83%) of neonates had severe pain (PIPP-R score>12).
Conclusion: A majority of neonates experience severe pain immediately after ROP screening and mild-moderate pain continues for 6 hours, hence an additional pharmacological agent should be considered for reducing neonatal pain.
Survival outcome was superior with liver resection versus percutaneous radiofrequency ablation in patients with single hepatocellular carcinoma 2-3 cm
Authors: Yen Yi-Hao , Liu Yueh-Wei , Hung Chao-Hung , Chen Chien-Hung , Kee Kwong-Ming , Li Wei-Feng , Wang Chih-Chi , Lin Chih-Yun
Published: February 2024

Purpose
Previous reports are ambiguous about the efficacy of percutaneous radiofrequency ablation (pRFA) in treating patients with early-stage hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) with a single 2.0–3.0 cm tumor. Our study compared outcomes of pRFA and liver resection (LR) in these patients.
Methods
From 2011 to 2021, 378 patients undergoing LR and 238 patients undergoing pRFA for early-stage HCC with a single 2.0–3.0 cm tumor and Child–Pugh class A liver disease were enrolled. Survival analysis was performed using the Kaplan − Meier method after propensity score matching (PSM) by age, sex, serum alpha-fetoprotein level, and the Model for End-Stage Liver Disease score.
Results
In multivariate analysis, pRFA vs. LR was the only comparison associated with five-year OS (HR: 2.278; 95% CI: 1.515–3.427; p < 0.001) and five-year RFS (HR: 1.995; 95% CI: 1.505–2.643; p < 0.001). After PSM, LR was associated with a significantly higher survival benefit than pRFA (five-year OS: 82% vs. 61%; p = 0.001; five-year RFS: 60% vs. 35%; p = 0.001).
Conclusion
LR offers a higher survival benefit than pRFA for patients with early-stage HCC with a single 2.0–3.0 cm tumor.
Automatic hyperparameter tuning of topology optimization algorithms using surrogate optimization
Authors: Ha Dat , Carstensen Josephine
Published: February 2024

This paper presents a new approach that automates the tuning process in topology optimization of parameters that are traditionally defined by the user. The new method draws inspiration from hyperparameter optimization in machine learning. A new design problem is formulated where the topology optimization hyperparameters are defined as design variables and the problem is solved by surrogate optimization. The new design problem is nested, such that a topology optimization problem is solved as an inner problem.To encourage the identification of high-performing solutions while limiting the computational resource requirements, the outer objective function is defined as the original objective combined with penalization for intermediate densities and deviations from the prescribed material consumption.The contribution is demonstrated on density-based topology optimization with various hyperparameters and objectives, including compliance minimization, compliant mechanism design, and buckling load factor maximization. Consistent performance is observed across all tested examples. For a simple two hyperparameter case, the new framework is shown to reduce amount of times a topology optimization algorithm is executed by 90\% without notably sacrificing the objective compared to a rigorous manual grid search.
The Implementability and Proximal Effects of a Transdiagnostic Mental Health Intervention for Adolescents (Kort): Protocol for a Mixed-Methods Intensive Longitudinal Study
Authors: ENGELL Thomas , HELLAND Siri Saugestad , VIRA Emily Gabriela , BERG Silje , KVAMME Line Solheim , KJØBLI John , BERGSETH Josefine , BRENNE Inga , NES Ragnhild BANG , RØYSAMB Espen , Brager-LARSEN Line , JENESON Anette , LØNSETTEIG Ane , VANGEN Ole-Martin , LEINAN Knut-Petter , MELLBLOM Anneli
Published: February 2024

Background
This protocol describes a study designed to test the implementability and proximal effects of a transdiagnostic mental health intervention for adolescents in school health services. The study is driven by the urgent need to address the rising mental health challenges among adolescents, exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Leveraging implementation science and evidence-informed intervention elements, this co-designed intervention focuses on emotion regulation (ER) as a central target for usable prevention and support.
Methods
The study employs a mixed-methods approach, integrating intensive longitudinal experience sampling (daily measures for 13 weeks), a micro trial, pre-, post-, and follow-up measures, audio recordings, and qualitative interviews to triangulate data from school nurses and adolescent participants. The research questions span the domains of intervention implementability, barriers and facilitators to implementation, proximal outcomes for adolescents' emotion regulation, the mechanisms driving the intervention's proximal effects, and response burden in experience sampling. The study aims to recruit a minimum of 25 health nurses and 46 adolescents.
Discussion
The study is novel in using mixed methods from multiple theoretical paradigms to examine ER as a dynamic process and transdiagnostic target outcome for promoting mental health and preventing disorders. Through daily diary and ecological momentary assessments, the study explores the intricacies of ER in real-life settings. Coupling the experience sampling with highly detailed fidelity measurement, we will observe adolescents' day-to-day responses to intervention elements and how they affect emotion regulation. The integrated micro-trial also addresses concerns about response burden in experience sampling to optimize data collection strategies for future studies.
Trial registration
The ISRCTN-registry: ISRCTN14932526, registration date 04/04/2023
Wage inequality, Urbanization and In(formalization) in India
Authors: Mondal Rima , Grover Minali , Bahl Shweta
Published: February 2024

This study aims to explain the wage inequality from the standpoint of urbanization being experienced by the developing economies, focusing on the case of India. Migration, changes in the administration boundaries and natural growth, sub-urbanization and informalization of spaces during urbanization contribute differently to wage inequality. The contribution of different types of urbanization to wage inequality has been captured by segregating spatial inequality from sectoral. The findings from quantile regression reveal that sectoral wage inequality in urban areas is higher than spatial wage inequality. Given the rapid and poor quality of urbanization observed in India, the study concludes that formalization/ strengthening labour market institutions should be prioritized for addressing the issues of wage inequality and promoting urban prosperity.
JEL Classification: R12, J31, J46, O17
Investigation of Cognitive Functions, Quality of Life, and Exercise Compatibility in Lung Cancer Patients Given Calisthenic Exercise
Authors: HATIMOGULLARI Kardelen , KOCAMAZ Deniz , KARAN Canan
Published: February 2024

Purpose
The present study was conducted to investigate the cognitive functions, quality of life, and exercise compliance of lung cancer patients given Callisthenic Exercises.
Method
A total of 33 patients who were diagnosed with advanced lung cancer were included in the study after being randomly divided into two groups as Physical Activity Adherence (PAC) (Group 1) and Home Exercise Training (HET) (Group 2). The participants in Physical Activity Adherence Group performed the prescribed Callisthenic Exercises under the guidance of a physiotherapist for 8 weeks. The Home Exercise Training Group was given an exercise booklet and was asked to do the exercises at home during weekly checks. The demographic data of the participants were recorded. Evaluations were made by using the Cancer Research and Treatment Organization Quality of Life Questionnaire - Core 30 (EORTC-QLQ-C30), Exercise Compliance Rating Scale, Cognitive Function Scale, Fatigue Severity Scale, and Exercise Benefits/Barriers Scale.
Results
It was found that the patients who had lung cancer had greater exercise compliance when they performed the exercises under the guidance of a physiotherapist. The booklet and supervised follow-up that were given to the Home Exercise Training Group were among the factors that increased compliance with the exercises. Also, Callisthenic Exercises were shown to be effective in reducing the side effects of cancer and its treatment. When post-intervention differences were evaluated, it was found that perceived cognitive impairments decreased in the Home Exercise Training Group. An improvement was detected in the quality of life survey subgroups in the Physical Activity Adherence Group.
Discussion
Callisthenic Exercise and regular follow-up increased exercise compliance in individuals who had lung cancer. As compliance with exercise programs increased, the participants’ quality of life, cognitive well-being, and perception of exercise benefits increased, and the severity of fatigue decreased. Preferring Callisthenic Exercises in lung cancer patients is considered to be more effective in increasing compliance because of the lower endurance requirement.
Os supratrochleare anterius: a very rare clinical case and review of literature
Authors: Kachlik David , Kunc Vojtech , Salavova Sarka , Kopp Lubomir
Published: February 2024

Purpose:
The accessory ossicles around the elbow are very rare variant structures, present in approximately 0.7% of cases. They can cause diagnostic problems and can be mistaken for pathological structures, especially when pain and limitation of elbow movements are present and a trauma can be traced in the patient’s history. They are of different nature, either presenting within muscle tendons as sesamoids (brachialis and triceps brachii muscles) or presenting intra-articularly probably as separated or accessory ossification centres. The least common is the os supratrochleare anterius.
Methods:
We present a case of a young male, presenting with chronic blocking and 20° limited flexion of his right elbow, which bothered him during his occupation as a locksmith. In history, he suffered minor trauma to the elbow 20 years ago. X-ray and CT showed a large ossicle in the coronoid fossa of the humerus.
Results:
The ossicle was surgically extracted in small pieces. The patient left satisfied with no mention of complaints.
Conclusion:
The os supratrochleare anterius is a very rare accessory osssicle of the elbow, located in the coronoid fossa of the humerus which can mimic many pathological states, and limit movements and causing pain around the elbow.