bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Association between defecation frequency and erectile dysfunction in patients with ulcerative colitis: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Furukawa Shinya , Miyake Teruki , Yoshida Osamu , Hanayama Masakazu , Kitahata Shogo , Ninomiya Tomoyuki , Yagi Sen , Suzuki Seiyuu , Shibata Naozumi , Ohashi Katsuhisa , Shiraishi Kana , Tange Kazuhiro , Hashimoto Yu , Tomida Hideomi , Yamamoto Yasunori , Takeshita Eiji , Ikeda Toshio , Hiasa Yoichi
Published: November 2023

The association between ulcerative colitis (UC) and erectile dysfunction (ED) was reported. However, no evidence regarding the association between gastrointestinal symptoms and ED in UC exists, some studies showed the association between gastrointestinal symptoms and ED. The aim of this study is to investigate the association between defecation frequency and ED in 164 patients with UC. The definition of ED was the Sexual Health Inventory for Men score < 12. The defecation frequency was divided into three categories: 1) high (at least two times/day), 2) moderate f (once a day, reference), and low (less than one time/day). The definition of constipation was based on the Rome I criteria and/or medication for constipation. The prevalence of ED and constipation was 54.9%, and 10.4%, respectively. The rate of high, moderate, and low defecation frequency was 18.9%, 25.0%, and 56.1%, respectively. High and low frequency defecation was independently and positively associated with ED (High: adjusted OR 4.15, 95% CI 1.36–13.46, and low: adjusted OR 2.77, 95% CI 1.18–6.77). P for quadratic trend, p = 0.007). No association between constipation and ED was found. In Conclusion, in Japanese patients with UC, the U-shaped association between defecation frequency and ED was found.
Neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio combinded skeletal muscle mass index predicts clinical outcomes in gastric cancer patients treated with immune checkpoint inhibitor
Authors: Deng Guiming , Zhu Dayong , Song Haibin , Du Zhongze , Xue Yingwei , Song Hongjiang , Li Yuanzhou
Published: November 2023

Background
Immunotherapy has recently emerged as a popular treatment option. This study looked into the predictive significance of the nutritional inflammation binding indicator, neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio-skeletal muscle mass index (NLR-SMI), in patients with gastric cancer receiving immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICIs) treatment.
Methods
This study included 199 patients with complete clinical data from September 2016 to October 2022, of whom 124 (62.3%) were treated with ICIs. Mortality rates in the first and fifth years of this sample were 8.5% and 38.7%, respectively. males and females accounted for 73.3% and 26.7% respectively. Clinical data differences were analyzed by using chi-square, Fisher's exact test, or Student's T-test. Patients’ survival differences were analyzed by Kaplan-Meier and log-rank tests. We created nomograms to predict survival probabilities based on separate prognostic indicators, and we utilized Cox's regression analysis to develop independent prognostic factors for patients.
Results
By univariate and multivariate analyses, NLR-SMI was found to be an independent prognostic factor for progression-free survival (PFS) and Overall survival (OS) (P < 0.05), and the higher NLR-SMI score is, the better the prognosis with for patients. Compared with chemotherapy, NLR-SMI had good prognostic value in the immunotherapy subgroup. According to a time-dependent ROC analysis, the AUC area for NLR-SMI hit the record in the third year.
Conclusion
The combination of NLR and SMI as a new nutritional indicator of inflammation can predict the prognosis of gastric cancer patients treated with ICIs.
Missed nursing care and associated factors among nurses in Bahir Dar public hospitals, Bahir Dar, Northwest Ethiopia 2023: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Biresaw Henok , Abere Yirgalem , Misganaw Mekides , Biresaw Biniayam , Adal Ousman
Published: November 2023

Introduction: Missed nursing care is a serious issue in the nursing profession. It is one of the elements that decreases the overall quality of nursing care, making patients more vulnerable to negative treatment outcomes.
Aim: The aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence of missed nursing care and its associated factors among nurses in Bahir Dar public hospitals, Amhara, northwest Ethiopia, in 2023.
Methods: An institution-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 369 randomly selected nurses working in Bahir Dar City public hospitals from March 16 to April 16, 2023. Data were collected through self-administered missed nursing care survey tools. A binary logistic regression model was used for statistical analysis. The statistical significance of the association between outcome variables and independent variables was declared at a P-value < 0.05 with a 95% CI.
Result: The prevalence of missed nursing care in this study was 46.3% (95% CI 41.7, 50.9). Physical examination (56.4%), patient discharge planning and teaching (50.9%), emotional support for the patient and family (50.8%), monitoring input and output (50.2%), patient ambulation (48.5%), and documentation (48%) were among the frequently missed nursing care activities. The male professionals (AOR: 2.9, 95% CI: 1.8, 4.8), who did not take on job training (AOR: 2.2, 95 CI: 1.4, 3.6), worked full 24 h (AOR: 3.7, 95% CI: 2.0, 6.5), had dissatisfaction with the level of teamwork (AOR: 4.6, 95% CI: 2.8, 7.6), and had an intention to leave the nursing profession (AOR: 1.8, 95% CI: 1.1, 2.9), were statistically associated with missed nursing care.
Conclusion: A significant proportion of nurses missed essential nursing care. Efforts should be made to enhance training, teamwork among nurses, stability, and adjust work shifts.
Synthesis, and Characterization of Cellulose Nanocrystal (CNC) From Corncob /PVA Based Nanocomposite
Authors: Demewoz Getahun Esubalew , Tiruneh Asnake Helia
Published: November 2023

The study has been carried out to investigate the effect of incorporating corncob cellulose nanocrystals in polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) matrix with the aim of enhancing the mechanical properties of PVA for reinforcement purposes. Cellulose nanocrystals were extracted from corncob by the method of sulfuric acid hydrolysis, with the objective of achieving maximum yield (41.8%) of cellulose nanocrystal found at the parameter interaction of 65wt.% sulfuric acid concentration,45℃ reaction temperature, and 60 minutes of hydrolysis time. Fourier transform infrared showed that Cellulose nanocrystals prepared from the hydrolysis of the isolated cellulose in the sulfuric acid had needle-shaped morphology, an average length of 170.3nm, and a crystallinity index of 79.3%. The crystallinity index obtained from x-ray diffraction for cellulose nanocrystal was found higher than extracted cellulose with a value of 79.3% and 76.4% respectively. Thermal stability by thermogravimetric analysis showed that the degradation temperature of the cellulose nanocrystals reached around 327℃, which was higher than that of the raw corncob and extracted corncob cellulose. Nanocomposite films were prepared by solution casting technique using 2, 4, and 6 wt% cellulose nanofillers, using pure PVA as the basis for the study. Parameters such as tensile strength, elongation, and elastic modulus were studied, and significant improvements in the properties of polyvinyl alcohol films containing cellulose nanofillers were observed. The tensile strength and modulus of PVA-reinforced nanocellulose composites were significantly improved with increasing nanocellulose loading. Therefore, dispersing 6% by weight of nanocrystalline cellulose in polyvinyl alcohol polymer increased tensile stress by 17.9% and modulus by 67.15%. 6 wt. The increase in elongation at break was 56.7% when using cellulose nanocrystals (CNC). Thermogravimetric analysis results of 6 wt% CNC-enhanced PVA show that high weight loss (approximately 84% weight loss of total weight) occurred in the temperature range from 265.6 to 491.61°C.
Effective Timing of Hyaluronate Gel Injection in Image-Guided Adaptive Brachytherapy for Uterine Cervical Cancer: A Proposal of the “Adjusted Dose Score”
Authors: Miyata Yusaku , Ogo Etsuyo , Murotani Kenta , Tsuda Naotake , Suzuki Gen , Tsuji Chiyoko , Akeda Ryosuke , Muraki Koichiro , Hattori Chikayuki , Abe Toshi
Published: November 2023

Background
Hyaluronate gel injection (HGI) in the rectovaginal septum (RVS) and vesicovaginal septum (VVS) is an effective method in the setting of high-dose-rate image-guided adaptive brachytherapy (IGABT) for cervical cancer. We retrospectively investigated the optimal conditions for HGI to achieve optimal dose distribution with a minimum number of HGI.
Methods
Fifty IGABT plans of 13 patients with cervical cancer who received IGABT both with and without HGI in the RVS and VVS were classified into the following two groups: the plan with (numbers of plans = 32) and the plan without (numbers of plans = 18) HGI groups. The irradiation dose parameters of high-risk clinical target volume (CTVHR) and organs at risk (OARs) per fraction were compared between the two groups. We also developed the adjusted dose score (ADS), reflecting the overall irradiation dose status for four OARs and CTVHR in one IGABT plan, and investigated its utility.
Results
HGI reduced the maximum dose to the most exposed 2.0 cm3 (D2.0 cm3) of the bladder while increasing the minimum dose covering 90% of CTVHR and the percentage of CTVHR receiving 100% of the prescription dose in one IGABT plan without causing any associated complications. The ADS of ≥ 2.60 was the optimum cut-off value to decide whether to perform HGI.
Conclusions
HGI is a useful procedure for improving target dose distribution while reducing D2.0 cm3 in the bladder in a single IGABT plan, and the ADS can be useful in determining the implementation of HGI.
Dark performance of the MISTRAL LEKIDs
Authors: Cacciotti Federico , Paiella Alesandro , Isopi Giovanni , Barbavara Eleonora , Battistelli Elia Stefano , de Bernardis Paolo , Capalbo Valentina , Carbone Aurora , Carretti Ettore , Ciccalotti Daniele , Columbro Fabio , Coppolecchia Alessandro , Cruciani Angelo , D'Alessandro Giuseppe , De Petris Marco , Govoni Federica , Lamagna Luca , Levati Edoardo , Marongiu Pasqualino , Mascia Adina , Masi Silvia , Molinari Emilio , Murgia Matteo , Navarrini Alessandro , Novelli Alessandro , Occhiuzzi Andrea , Orlati Andrea , Pappalardo Elia , Pettinari Giorgio , Piacentini Francesco , Pisanu Tonino , Poppi Sergio , Porceddu Ignazio , Ritacco Alessia , Schirru Maria Renata , Vargiu Gian Paolo
Published: November 2023

MISTRAL, Millimetric Sardinia radio Telescope Receiver based on Array of Lumped elements KIDs, is a W-Band cryogenic LEKID camera installed on the Sardinia Radio Telescope (SRT), in Italy. The MISTRAL detector array has been designed to work in the range 77 to 103 GHz, at an operating temperature in the range 200 to 240 mK and under an optical load of few pW. The MISTRAL detectors consist of 415 LEKIDs made of Ti-Al bilayer, coupled to an aluminum microstrip feedline. In this contribution, we will describe the dark performance of the MISTRAL focal plane, focusing on the detector yield, quality factors, response time and electrical responsivity. We found about 350 out of 415 pixels working in the frequency range of 200 to 650 MHz with array-average quality factors Qi ~ 43000, Qc ~ 20000 and Qtot ~ 13000 at 200 mK. The response time has been measured on a representative sample of pixels by waiting for cosmic ray events hitting the detector wafer obtaining an average value of ~ 15 μs. We give the results of the electrical characterization.
Proteomics Comparison of Nasal Lavage Fluid in Chronic Rhinosinusitis with Nasal Polyps with or without Asthma
Authors: Guo Jing , Yang Yujuan , Yao Yao , Wang Jianwei , Yu Pengyi , Yang Qintai , Zhang Wenbin , Cao Jiayu , Zhang Yu , Song Xicheng
Published: November 2023

Background
Chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNP) accompanied by asthma generally has a poor prognosis. We used proteomic methods to explore the effect of comorbid asthma on CRSwNP.
Methods
Differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) were identified separately in nasal lavage fluid (NLF) between control, CRSwNP and CRSwNP with asthma groups by bioinformatics analysis based on proteomics. The key proteins involved in effect of comorbid asthma on CRSwNP were further identified according to gradient change of DEPs between the three groups by DIA quantification.
Results
Compared to the control, 1377 DEPs and 1006 DEPs were identified in NLF from CRSwNP and CRSwNP with asthma groups, respectively. The biological function of DEPs in CRSwNP was highly similar to that in CRSwNP with asthma by GO and KOG enrichment analysis, but the enriched pathways in the two groups were different, mainly enriched in ‘Hippo signaling pathway’, ‘Endocytosis’ and ‘Wnt signaling pathway’, ‘Carbon metabolism’, respectively. Two up-regulated proteins PRDX5, RanBP1 and a down-regulated protein KRT9 were identified as the key proteins involved in asthma affecting CRSwNP because they showed the same changing trends whether in CRSwNP or CRSwNP with asthma, and the change was most significant in CRSwNP with asthma.
Conclusion
Comorbid asthma can promote the occurrence and development of nasal polyps through related key proteins and signaling pathways.
Study in Bianchi-IX space time with linear dependencies on R & T with gravity
Authors: MISHRA RAVI KANT , Sharma Rahul
Published: November 2023

This communication involves the exploration of Bianchi-IX spacetime with linear dependencies on the Ricci scale, denoted as , and the trace of the energy-momentum tensor, referred to as . This implies a modified gravity theory described by the function . The detailed investigation is structured into seven comprehensive sections. We present solutions to the field equations governing the cosmological model by introducing the concept of a fractional linear varying deceleration parameter (FLVDP). This innovative approach enables us to unveil the complex dynamics of the universe. We analyze our findings through graphical representation, providing insights into various key parameters. The visual depictions of important parameters, such as the Hubble parameter, scale factor, shear scalar, expansion scalar, and cosmological constant, serve to validate the results obtained by us.
Mineralogical compositions of soils under three geological formations in some parts of Ogun state, Nigeria and their agricultural potentials
Authors: Adekiya Aruna Olasekan , Ajayi Grace Atinuke , Adegbite Kehinde Abodunde , Imhanze Faith Luciana , Lekoo Ibaba Ayibanoa
Published: November 2023

Understanding soil mineralogical composition provides insight into the agricultural behaviour of soils, pedogenesis and their response to environmental conditions and management. Examination of the mineral compositions and diversities of soils developed over the Basement complex rock, Coastal plain sands and Ewekoro formations were carried out. Using X-ray diffractometry (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and Petrography, the mineral contents and their relative abundance, elemental compositions and morphologies of the fine sand, coarse silt and clay fractions of the soils at different topographic positions were identified, described and compared. Results obtained from XRD and SEM analyses exhibited similarities. The presence of mixed-layer illite, mica, kaolinite, quartz, hematite, anatase, goethite, and chlorite at varying degrees was observed in the pedons developed on these geological formations, although kaolinite and quartz dominated the soil matrix. The mineralogical complexity of the pedons followed the order of basement complex > coastal plain sand > Ewekoro formation. Profiles developed on the Ewekoro formation exhibited the highest degree of weathering, as evidenced by their chemical properties and mineralogical compositions. The petrographic evaluation of the three geological formations revealed that all pedons were rich in quartz and exhibited varying degrees of mineral complexity and maturation. The overlapping and distinct characteristics among the geologies indicated different stages of weathering. The petrographic analysis further confirmed that profiles from the Ewekoro formation were the most weathered. The use of such soils for agriculture would necessitate significant investments in agro-inputs and sound principles of soil management through integrated soil fertility management.
Avoiding lateral mode leakage in thin film lithium niobate waveguides for the generation of spectrally pure photons at telecom wavelengths
Authors: Arora Muskan , Chokkara Pranav , Lugani Jasleen
Published: November 2023

Photonic integrated optical components, notably straight waveguides, serve as pivotal elements for on-chip generation and manipulation of quantum states of light. In this work, we focus on optimizing waveguides based on lithium niobate on insulator (LNOI) to generate photon pairs at telecom wavelength using spontaneous parametric down-conversion (SPDC). Specifically, we investigate lateral leakage for all possible SPDC processes involving type 0, type I and type II phase matching conditions in an X-cut lithium niobate waveguide and provide a recipe to avoid leakage loss for the interacting photons. Furthermore, focusing on type II phase matching, we engineer the waveguide in the single mode regime such that it also satisfies group index matching for generating spectrally pure single photons with high purity (99.33\%). We also address fabrication imperfections of the optimized design and found that the spectral purity of the generated photons is robust to fabrication errors. This work serves as a tutorial for the appropriate selection of morphological parameters to obtain lossless, single mode LNOI waveguides for building linear optical circuits and photon pair generation at telecom wavelengths using desired phase-matching conditions.
Global abundance patterns, diversity, and ecology of Patescibacteria in wastewater treatment plants
Authors: Hu Huifeng , Kristensen Jannie Munk , Herbold Craig William , Pjevac Petra , Kitzinger Katharina , Hausmann Bela , Dueholm Morten Kam Dahl , Nielsen Per Halkjaer , Wagner Michael
Published: November 2023

Background
Microorganisms are responsible for nutrient removal and resource recovery in wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs), and their diversity is often studied by 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing. However, this approach underestimates the abundance and diversity of Patescibacteria due to the low coverage of commonly used PCR primers for this highly divergent bacterial phylum. Therefore, our current understanding of the global diversity, distribution, and ecological role of Patescibacteria in WWTPs is very incomplete. This is particularly relevant as Patescibacteria are considered to be associated with microbial host cells and can therefore influence the abundance and temporal variability of other microbial groups that are important for WWTP functioning.
Results
Here, we evaluated the in silico coverage of widely used 16S rRNA gene-targeted primer pairs and redesigned a primer pair targeting the V4 region of bacterial and archaeal 16S rRNA genes to expand its coverage for Patescibacteria. We then experimentally evaluated and compared the performance of the original and modified V4-targeted primers on 565 WWTP samples from the MiDAS global sample collection. Using the modified primer pair, the percentage of ASVs classified as Patescibacteria increased from 5.9–23.8%, and the number of detected patescibacterial genera increased from 560 to 1,576, while the detected diversity of the remaining microbial community remained similar. Due to this significantly improved coverage of Patescibacteria, we identified 23 core genera of Patescibacteria in WWTPs and described the global distribution pattern of these unusual microbes in these systems. Finally, correlation network analysis revealed potential host organisms that might be associated with Patescibacteria in WWTPs. Interestingly, strong indications were found for an association between Patescibacteria of the Saccharimonadia and globally abundant polyphosphate-accumulating organisms of the genus Ca. Phosporibacter.
Conclusions
Our study (i) provides an improved 16S rRNA gene V4 region-targeted amplicon primer pair inclusive of Patescibacteria with little impact on the detection of other taxa, (ii) reveals the diversity and distribution patterns of Patescibacteria in WWTPs on a global scale, and (iii) provides new insights into the ecological role and potential hosts of Patescibacteria in WWTPs.
Evaluating the Effect of Injection Protocols on Intrathecal Solute Dispersion in Non-Human Primates: An In Vitro Study Using a Cynomolgus Cerebrospinal Fluid System
Authors: Burla Goutham Kumar Reddy , Shresth Dev , Bowen Mayumi , Horvath Joshua , Martin Bryn A.
Published: November 2023

Background: Achieving effective drug delivery to the central nervous system (CNS) remains a challenge for treating neurological disorders. Intrathecal (IT) delivery, which involves direct injection into the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), presents a promising strategy. Large animal studies are important to assess the safety and efficacy of most drugs and treatments and translate the data to humans. An understanding of the influence of IT injection parameters on solute distribution within the CNS is essential to optimize preclinical research, which would potentially help design human clinical studies.
Methods: An anatomically realistic 3D in vitro non-human primate (NHP) cynomolgus monkey model, based on MRI data, was used to evaluate the impact of lumbar injection parameters on intrathecal solute dispersion. The parameters evaluated were (a) injection location, (b) bolus volume, (c) flush volume, (d) bolus rate, and (e) flush rate. To simulate the CSF flow within the subarachnoid space (SAS), an idealized CSF flow waveform with both cardiac and respiratory-induced components was input into the model. A solution of fluorescein drug surrogate tracer was administered in the lumbar region of the 3D in vitro model filled with deionized water. After injection of the tracer, the CSF system wide-solute dispersion was imaged using high-resolution cameras every thirty seconds for a duration of three hours. To ensure repeatability each injection protocol was repeated three times. For each protocol, the average spatial-temporal distribution over three hours post-injection, the area under the curve (AUC), and the percent injected dose (%ID) to extra-axial CSF (eaCSF) at three hours were determined.
Results: The changes to the lumbar injection parameters led to variations in solute distribution along the neuro-axis. Specifically, injection location showed the most impact, enhancing the delivery to the eaCSF up to +10.5 %ID (p=0.0282) at three hours post-injection. Adding a post-injection flush increased the solute delivery to the eaCSF by +6.5 %ID (p=0.0218), while the larger bolus volume resulted in a +2.3 %ID (p=0.1910) increase. The bolus and flush rates analyzed had minimal, statistically non-significant effects.
Conclusion: These results predict the effects of lumbar injection parameters on solute distribution in the intrathecal space in NHPs. Specifically, the choice of injection location, flush, and bolus volume significantly improved solute delivery to eaCSF. The in vitro NHP CSF model and results offer a system to help predict and optimize IT delivery protocols for pre-clinical NHP studies.
Development of Double Flare Angle bowtie slot Antenna for Multichroic CMB Polarization Detectors
Authors: Pham Viet Dung , Hu Jie , Prêle Damien , Piat Michel
Published: November 2023

Lens antenna-coupled detectors have emerged as a prominent technology for future millimeter-wave astronomy, particularly in observing Cosmic Microwave Background (CMB) B-Mode. Given this context, we reconfigured the conventional broadband bowtie slot antenna into a double flare angle design, targeting CMB emission wavelengths centered at 150 and 220 GHz. This antenna exhibits a return loss S11 < −10 dB over more than an octave 100 - 300 GHz and delivers a bandwidth exceeding 20% for the two targeted sub-bands. When integrated with a dielectric lens, it retains effective linear polarization sensitivity, with cross-polarization below -15 dB at both sub-bands. Incorporating on-chip bandpass filters enables the separation of the antenna’s signals to microwave kinetic inductance detectors (MKIDs), constructing a compact, polarization-selective, multichroic pixel.
Radiomics-Based Machine Learning in Differentiation Between Primary Central Nervous System Lymphoma And Solitary Brain Metastasis
Authors: Xia Xueming , Du Wei , Qiu Jiajun , Tan Qiaoyue , Gou Qiheng
Published: November 2023

Purpose:
Primary central nervous system lymphoma (PCNSL) and solitary brain metastasis (SBM) are common malignant brain tumors. Due to distinct treatment approaches, accurately distinguishing between them preoperatively is crucial. However, conventional MRI techniques often face challenges in differentiating them due to their similar imaging appearances. This study aimed to develop and validate radiomics-derived nomogram models for distinguishing PCNSL from SBM based on conventional MRI.
Methods:
In this retrospective study, 324 patients diagnosed with either PCNSL (115 patients) or SBM (209 patients) from January 2011 to May 2021 were included. Conventional MRI data were processed to extract a comprehensive set of 1561 radiomics features. A two-step feature selection using LASSO regression narrowed down significant features. Twenty classification algorithms were applied to create predictive models, which were validated by receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves.
Results
A total of 23 features were shortlisted by LASSO regression. Among the twenty classifiers evaluated, many displayed AUCs greater than 0.9 in both 10-fold cross-validation and independent testing. The SVMRBF classifier, in particular, showcased the highest AUC of 0.9310 in the independent test, followed closely by the RF, ANN, ELDA, and others.
Conclusion
Radiomics-based models, utilizing conventional MRI data, demonstrated promising potential in effectively distinguishing PCNSL from SBM. The SVMRBF classifier emerged as the most efficient in terms of diagnostic efficacy, suggesting its clinical utility in the differential diagnosis of these two entities.
A population-based study on the incidence, risk factors and outcome of Salmonella bloodstream infections in South Sweden 2012-2022
Authors: Björklund Lina , Mattisson Ylva , Bläckberg Anna , Sunnerhagen Torgny , Ljungquist Oskar
Published: November 2023

Introduction:
Invasive infections caused by Salmonella are a significant global health concern. This population-based study aimed to comprehensively analyze invasive Salmonella infections in South Sweden, focusing on incidence, clinical presentation, risk factors, and outcomes.
Methods
This population-based observational cohort study, conducted from 2012 to 2022, included all patients with Salmonella bloodstream infections (BSI) in the Skåne region, South of Sweden. A control group consisted of patients with positive stool cultures/PCR for Salmonella but without BSI. Data were collected following a predefined study protocol and systematically reviewed. Standardized statistical analyses assessed patient characteristics, clinical presentation, and outcomes.
Results
Between 2012 and 2022, 149 patients with Salmonella BSI were identified, with the majority having non-typhoidal Salmonella (NTS) infections (95%). A declining trend in the incidence of Salmonella BSI was observed, with the highest incidence in 2012 (1.5 per 100,000 person-years) and the lowest in 2020 (0.3 per 100,000 person-years). Patients with BSI were more likely to be older, have comorbidities, be immunosuppressed, and use proton pump inhibitors (PPIs). Additionally, BSI patients presented with fewer gastrointestinal symptoms, had a higher respiratory rate, lower saturation, and higher clinical scores, suggesting a more septic presentation. Salmonella BSI patients had significantly longer hospital stays and higher 30-day, 90-day, 180-day, and 365-day mortality rates compared to the control group.
Conclusion
Invasive Salmonella infections are rare but have a substantial impact on patients in South Sweden. The absence of classic gastroenteritis symptoms increases the risk of Salmonella bloodstream infection. This study highlights the importance of distinguishing between clinical presentations to guide appropriate treatment. The declining trend in incidence, particularly associated with international travel, necessitates further investigation to understand contributing factors.
Evaluating ChatGPT-4 in medical education: an assessment of subject exam performance reveals limitations in clinical curriculum support for students
Authors: Mackey Brendan P , Garabet Razmig , Maule Laura , Tadesse Abay , Cross James , Weingarten Michael
Published: November 2023

This study evaluates the proficiency of ChatGPT-4 across various medical specialties and assesses its potential as a study tool for medical students preparing for the United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE) Step 2 and related clinical subject exams. ChatGPT-4 answered board-level questions with 89% accuracy, but showcased significant discrepancies in performance across specialties. Although it excelled in psychiatry, neurology, and obstetrics & gynecology, it underperformed in pediatrics, emergency medicine, and family medicine. These variations may be potentially attributed to the depth and recency of training data as well as the scope of the specialties assessed. Specialties with significant interdisciplinary overlap had lower performance, suggesting complex clinical scenarios pose a challenge to the AI. In terms of the future, the overall efficacy of ChatGPT-4 indicates a promising supplemental role in medical education, but performance inconsistencies across specialties in the current version lead us to recommend that medical students use AI with caution.
Risk and related factors of depression among patients with post-COVID-19 conditions in outpatient clinics: A single-center, cross-sectional study in southern Vietnam
Authors: Binh Nguyen Thanh , Thuan Tran Thien , Luc Nguyen Hoang Tan , Bang Ho Tat , Trinh Le Thi Diem
Published: November 2023

Background
The COVID-19 crisis is having a significant impact on the health of people, especially on general mental health. This study is to determine the prevalence of depression and related factors among patients with post-COVID-19 conditions in an outpatient clinic at the University Medical Center, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, in 2022.
Method
A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 410 patients with post-COVID-19 conditions in an outpatient clinic at the University Medical Center, Ho Chi Minh City, using a convenience sampling method to screen for depression in patients with post-COVID-19 conditions with the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9).
Results
In total, 410 patients responded. Depression was observed in 23.7% of respondents and was categorized as mild (80.4%), moderate (16.5%), or severe (3.1%) using the PHQ-9 and PHQ-10 as the cut-off scores. Factors influencing depression among patients include being aged 50 years or older, religion, education, full-time employment, marital status, contact with family members, use of anti-inflammatory drugs, hospital admission due to COVID-19, chronic disease, hypertension, and post-COVID-19 symptoms (shortness of breath, palpitations, fatigue, headache, abdominal pain, brain fog, insomnia, and loss of appetite). The most common symptoms in patients at the clinic include cough, dyspnea, shortness of breath, fatigue, and loss of appetite. A p value less than 0.05 indicated statistical significance.
Conclusion
The depression risk in the outpatient clinic was high. Therefore, improving mental health and quality of life alongside the prevention and treatment of COVID-19 should remain a public health priority.
Mongolian pika (Ochotona pallasi) a important Cryptosporidium species vector at China-mongolia border of China
Authors: Shiyi Wang , Wang Huiqian , Han Xiaoshuang , Zhao Shanshan , Tan Wenbo , Wang Suwen , Liu Changqing , Wang Yuanzhi
Published: November 2023

Background
Cryptosporidium, as intestinal protozoa, have been widely reported in wildlife, livestock and humans. Mongolian pika (Ochotona pallasi) live at high altitudes along the China-mongolia borderline, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region (XUAR, northwestern China). However, little information is available on the prevalence and characterization of Cryptosporidium in Ochotonidae worldwide, especially in Mongolian pika. The aim of this study was to investigate Cryptosporidium in the Mongolian pika at China-mongolia border of China.
Methods
In present study, eighty-three intestinal content specimens were collected from 15 sampling sites in XUAR (2021–2023). The 18S ribosomal RNA (18S rRNA) gene of all samples were amplified using nested PCR and sequenced.
Results
A total of 12 samples were positive for Cryptosporidium. Moreover, four known species, Cryptosporidium canis, C. ubiquitum, C. ryanae, and C. sp yak, and a novel Cryptosporidium species, here named as Cryptosporidium sp. Mongolian pika, were also identified.
Conclusions
The findings indicated that Mongolian pika is an important reservoir host for multiple Cryptosporidium species, which is potentially circulated among Mongolian pikas, ruminants and carnivors in this alpine region, China-mongolia border of China.
Zambian Medical Students’ Attitude Towards Robotic Surgery: A Cross- Sectional Survey
Authors: mukambo emmanuel , Zulu Mbawe , Mbiydzenyuy Ngala Elvis , Hakayuwa Clyde
Published: November 2023

Robotic surgery, evolving over half a century, has become a standard in various surgical fields, offering benefits like smaller incisions and improved patient outcomes. Integrating it into medical education is vital to prepare future healthcare professionals. Yet, Zambian medical students' knowledge and attitudes regarding robotic surgery remain largely unexplored. This study aims to bridge this gap, providing insights for healthcare and education. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted using a questionnaire between June and July 2021. The study included medical students from various academic years, both genders, and different institutions. Data was collected through a web-based questionnaire and analyzed using descriptive statistics and statistical tests. Participants were categorized into groups based on their exposure to robotic surgery. Results: A total of 768 out of 1,113 respondents provided complete responses, resulting in a 69% response rate. Notably, 47.20% of participants had no prior exposure to robotic surgery, while 45.40% expressed a desire to learn more about it. When assessing students' attitudes towards robotic surgery, 38.80% accepted it personally, 51.82% believed patients in Zambia would accept it, and 61.85% agreed that using robots would improve surgical outcomes. However, 62.24% agreed that robotic surgery could make surgeons weaker and less professional. Conclusion: This study sheds light on Zambian medical students' attitudes and knowledge about robotic surgery, underlining the need for tailored educational strategies to address misconceptions and concerns. This prepares the next generation of healthcare professionals in Zambia to embrace advanced surgical techniques and optimize robotic surgery for improved patient outcomes.
Fluorite Alumina Fuel Cells
Authors: Lund Peter , Shah M.A.K. Yousaf , Akbar Nabeela , Zhao Wenjuan , Mushtaq Naveed , Wan Shuo , Lu Yuzheng , Fan Liangdong , Yu Yong , Huang Jiangbing , He Lunhua , Hao Jiazheng , Lou Chenjie , Tang Mingxue , Zhu Bin
Published: November 2023

Solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) is a promising technology for the hydrogen economy and clean energy production. However, the classical SOFC employing fluorite-type electrolytes such as yttrium-stabilized zirconia (YSZ) and Gd3+/Sm3+-doped CeO2 (GDC/SDC) faces significant technical challenges due to the required high operational temperature. Here, a groundbreaking result on alumina in fluorite structure deviated from the amorphous phase with high oxygen vacancy concentration is reported. Unlike lower valency cationic doping in traditional fluorite electrolytes, a higher-valency Ce4+ doping can further modulate fluorite alumina’s structural and electrical properties. Through electrochemical proton injection, we explored H+ transport coupled with intrinsic mobile O2- ions in Ce-doped alumina as an electrolyte, resulting in remarkable ionic conduction > 0.1 S cm-1 and a high fuel cell power density of 1057 mW cm-2 at 500 °C. The abundant nature and facile synthesis profile make fluorite a promising electrolyte material for next-generation SOFC.
Global Shapley Explanations and LIME on HLA-B27 Positivity in Ankylosing Spondylitis Patients
Authors: Taş Nurmuhammet , Seferoğlu Buminhan , Naldan Muhammet Emin , Naldan Hülya , Kırboğa Kevser Kübra , Işık Mesut
Published: November 2023

Ankylosing spondylitis (AS), an autoimmune disease, has the HLA-B27 gene in more than 90% of its patients. This study investigated the ability of health parameters to predict the presence of the HLA-B-27 gene and clinical and demographic data used in diagnosing AS. For this purpose, various classification models were evaluated, and the best-performing RFC model was selected. In addition, the model's predictions are understood and explained using XAI techniques such as SHAP and LIME. The model development results show that the RFC model performs best (Accuracy:0.75, F1 Score:0.74, Recall:0.75, Precision:0.75, Brier Score:0.25, AUC: 0.76), and XAI techniques provide the ability to explain the decisions of this model. Among the health parameters, WBC, Hematocrit, uric acid, and gender were found to show the strongest association with HLA-B-27. This study aims to understand the genetic predisposition of AS and to illuminate the potential of XAI techniques in medical diagnosis. The study's strengths include comprehensive model evaluation, explainability of model decisions, and revealing the relationship between health parameters and HLA-B-27. In addition, this study considered ethical dimensions like the confidentiality of personal health data and the privacy of patients.
Soil pores created by diverse plant communities drive microbial community composition and processes with ecosystem consequences
Authors: Kravchenko Alexandra , Li Zheng , Cupples Alison , Guber Andrey , Kuzyakov Yakov , Robertson G , Blagodatskaya Evgenia
Published: November 2023

Delineation of microbial habitats within the soil matrix and characterization of their environments are crucial to understand soil functioning and carbon (C) cycling. Yet, experimental identification of microbial communities populating specific micro-habitats and assessments of their biochemical properties have been persistently limited. Here we demonstrate how long-term disparities in vegetation history modify spatial distribution patterns and properties of soil pores and particulate organic matter (POM), and show striking differences in bacterial communities populating pores of contrasting sizes in soils from three vegetation systems on the same soil type: an intensive corn (Zea mays L.) rotation, monoculture switchgrass (Panicum virgatum L.), and restored North American prairie. We combined single- and triple-energy X-ray computed microtomography (µCT) with pore specific allocation of 13 C labeled glucose and subsequent stable isotope probing (13C-DNA/RNA-SIP) to show that large (30-150 µm Ø) and small (4-10 µm Ø) soil pores differed in (i) microbial diversity, composition, and life-strategies, (ii) responses to added substrate, (iii) metabolic pathways, and (iv) the processing and fate of labile C. Results demonstrate that soil pores created by different plant communities differ in ways that strongly influence microbial composition and activity, and thus impact ecosystem processes such as decomposition, nitrogen processing, and carbon sequestration. A proposed classification scheme may improve biogeochemical models of soil processes and as well suggest interventions to mitigate the environmental consequences of agricultural management.
Aplasia of the posterior cruciate ligament: case report and review of the literature
Authors: Albahkali Salha , Alfaisal Faisal
Published: November 2023

Hypoplasia or absence of the posterior cruciate ligaments is a very rare congenital malformation. The approach to such cases essentially needs an MRI exam protocol. The management options are variable and require further discussion.
CASE SUMMARY:
The patient is a 23-year-old Saudi male who has been suffering from pain in the right knee joint starting in the last three months, with an increase in the frequency of right knee pain especially with intentional activities.
Magnetic resonance imaging demonstrated an absence/ hypoplasia of the posterior cruciate ligament of the right knee without bone abnormality or subluxation.
The patient follows a regular period of physiotherapy per week.
CONCLUSION:
The diagnosis of posterior cruciate ligament deficiency should be dependent on medical history, patient presentation, and MRI protocol, then appropriate management by a combination of both physical and surgical pathways.
Using Chicken Manure as a Source of Multi-Functionalities to Catalyse Oxygen Reduction Reaction in Clean Energy Devices
Authors: Kaur Prabhsharan , Kaur Veerpal , Verma Gaurav
Published: November 2023

Chicken manure is one of the most widely generated animal waste worldwide. However, waste is the anomaly being used for this organic treasure as it contains all 13 essential nutrients that are used by plants and for the reason, the traditional use of chicken manure is as a fertilizer. It increases the fertility of soil but at the same time, it may give rise to accumulation of heavy metals in soil, greenhouse gas emissions, soil acidification, spreading of diseases, rodents, and pests, etc. Other value-addition processes for the treatment of chicken manure like composting, gasification, pyrolysis, torrefaction, etc., are either costlier or energy intensive. So, we present here a new method to use chicken manure in a very simple and economical way for the fuel cell applications. In this study, carbon nanofibers (CNF) are modified with chicken manure to impart multiple functionalities to their surface, and further the functionalized CNF are explored as an electrocatalyst to speed up the sluggish oxygen reduction reaction kinetics happening at the cathode of a fuel cell. The functionalized CNF contains N (7.40 at.%), O (6.22 at.%), P (0.30 at.%), S (0.02 at.%), etc., elements as revealed by the EDX and FTIR studies. FESEM and XRD studies confirmed that the morphology of CNF remained intact after their treatment with chicken manure. The modified CNF exhibited a higher electrocatalytic activity (onset potential: - 0.0756 V; limiting current density: 2.69 mA cm-2) as compared to the pristine CNF. The effects of dispersion (with Triton X-100) on the chicken manure-based functionalization of CNF are also investigated. This preliminary study on novel usage of chicken manure for the fuel cell applications will usher the advanced ways of treating different environmental wastes.
Lactate is associated with long-term mortality in hospitalized patients with COVID-19; a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Ebrahimi Pouyan , Fallah Farnaz , Pakdaman Kimia , Shirafkan Hoda , Abedi Seyed Hassan
Published: November 2023

Introduction: COVID-19 disease is the cause of death for many people around the world by causing systemic involvement of organs in the body. The prevalence of the disease has declined over the past two years due to initial treatment, but concerns about upcoming mutations remain. In this study, we investigate the relationship between lactate levels and mortality at different times.
Methods: In the present retrospective cohort study, we included 228 patients with COVID-19 according to the inclusion and exclusion criteria and extracted the variables using the data in the files and analyzed them. Follow-up of patients, if discharged alive, has been done from hospitalization until March 2021. We used SPSS version 22 to analyzed data and P<0.05 is considered significant.
Results: Lactate level (mean 2.88 in the dead group versus mean 1.68 in the living group) has a significant relationship with mortality at hospitalization (p<0.05). It is also effective to measure lactate level as a function of the length of time spent in hospital on mortality (P=0.001, HR = 2.960, 95%CI =4.255-2.58), as well as according to the length of time spent following up on mortality after medical follow-up (P=0.001, HR = 2.960, 95%CI =4.255 to 2.58).
Conclusion: Lactate levels in this study were not only associated with mortality and severity but also could identify acute status at the onset of patients by predicting an increased mortality risk ratio at the time of admission and follow-up. Therefore, we recommend measuring this biomarker in COVID-19 patients.
Enrique Beck, 1904–1974
Authors: Oeser Hans-Christian
Published: November 2023

Mehr als ein halbes Jahrhundert lang galt Enrique Beck als die deutsche Stimme des Dichters und Dramatikers Federico García Lorca (1898–1936). Bis auf den "Diwan des Tamarit" und die "Sonette der dunklen Liebe", die zu seinen Lebzeiten noch nicht im Original publiziert waren, übertrug er das Gesamtwerk des am 19. August 1936 von Falangisten ermordeten Spaniers und prägte nachhaltig das Bild, das sich die Deutschen von Lorca machten. War er als dessen leidenschaftlicher Entdecker und verdienstvoller Wegbereiter lange Zeit überwiegend gelobt und weithin gewürdigt worden, so wird ihm heute vorgeworfen, dem deutschsprachigen Lese- und Theaterpublikum den Zugang zum "wahren" Lorca aufgrund sprachlicher, kultureller und translatorischer Inkompetenz sowie stilistischer Eigenmächtigkeiten verstellt zu haben.
Issues of interdisciplinary interaction during detection and diagnosis of tuberculosis in children and adolescents: a literature review and comments
Authors: Ovsyankina E. S. , Panova L. V. , Zakharova I. N.
Published: November 2023

Interdisciplinary interaction between phthisiatricians and pediatricians on the issues of detection and diagnosis of tuberculosis provides basis for the reduction of duration of the diagnostic process and the early identification of disease progression. The purpose of this review and comments is to systematize the knowledge of pediatricians about the detection and diagnosis of tuberculosis in children and adolescents in primary health care (PHC) facilities to improve the diagnostic process. We have performed an analysis and systematization of the current directive and methodological documents, articles on the detection and diagnosis of tuberculosis in PHC facitlities. The significance of skin immunological tests (Mantoux test using 5 tuberculin units (TU) of purified protein derivative (PPD)-L and a test with recombinant tuberculosis allergen (RTA)) during mass and selective screening to form groups at high risk for Tuberculosis and detect the disease is emphasized. The doctor’s actions based on the current guiding documents and laws are presented for cases when parents/legal representatives or the patient himself refuses from immunological skin tests. Positions that determine the need for interdisciplinary interaction for pediatricians on the issues of detection, diagnosis and differential diagnosis of tuberculosis are clearly articulated. The pathway to diagnosis begins with the formation of groups at high risk for tuberculosis in PHC facilities and with seeking medical help from a pediatrician in the presence of clinical signs similar to those of tuberculosis. Particular attention is paid to the detection of the disease when patients with clinical symptoms similar to those of tuberculosis seek medical help, and the missed opportunities for its early diagnosis are presented. Predictors allowing pediatricians to suspect tuberculosis and promptly refer a patient to a phthisiatrician to confirm / exclude the disease are provided.