bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Impact of Hypertensive Disorders of Pregnancy on Neonatal Adverse Outcomes and Inflammatory Markers
Authors: Liang Yumin , Zou Shafei , Liu Duoduo , Qiu Caihong , Liu Ying , Wang Yongmei , Wang Congrong
Published: October 2024

Background
Hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDP), including pregnancy-induced hypertension (PIH), mild preeclampsia (MPE), and severe preeclampsia (SPE), significantly impact maternal and neonatal health [1]. These conditions are associated with increased risks of cesarean section, placental abruption, preterm birth, and neonatal inflammation [2]. The inflammatory state of neonates is closely linked to their development and can influence both short-term and long-term health outcomes [3, 4]. However, the specific relationships between HDP and neonatal inflammatory markers remain underexplored. This study aimed to assess inflammation levels in neonates born to mothers with HDP, providing scientific evidence for clinical intervention and management.
Methods
This study included pregnant women diagnosed with HDP and their neonates at the Zengcheng Branch of Nanfang Hospital from January 2021 to December 2023. Maternal and neonatal characteristics, along with inflammatory markers within the first day of birth, were compared among the PIH (n = 40), MPE (n = 35), and SPE (n = 50) groups. Neonatal development was tracked at 14 and 28 days post-birth.
Results
Compared with the other groups, the SPE group had a significantly higher incidence of preterm birth, low birth weight, and respiratory distress syndrome (P < 0.001). The white blood cell and neutrophil counts were significantly lower in the SPE group than in the PIH and MPE groups (P < 0.05). Inflammatory markers, including the neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), systemic immune-inflammation index (SII), systemic inflammation response index (SIRI), and pan-immune-inflammation value (PIV), were also significantly reduced in the SPE group (P < 0.05). Compared with the PIH group, the MPE group presented greater neutrophil counts and PIV (P < 0.05). These differences persisted even after adjusting for preterm birth. Additionally, term neonates in the SPE group had significantly lower birth lengths and weights (P < 0.05), although no significant differences were observed among the groups at 28 days post-birth.
Conclusions
Severe preeclampsia significantly affects neonatal inflammatory states and growth, increasing the risk of adverse outcomes. While mild preeclampsia enhances the inflammatory response, severe preeclampsia appears to induce neonatal immunosuppression, potentially increasing the risk of infection and leading to short-term and long-term health complications.
Spontaneous cloacal prolapse in a farm ostrich (Struthio camelus): Addressing a rare clinical entity with effective surgical management
Authors: Munif Mohammad Raguib
Published: October 2024

Captive ratites, including the ostrich (Struthio camelus), are susceptible to various gastrointestinal conditions. However, spontaneous cloacal prolapse is a relatively less frequent case in this regard. A 10-week-old female ostrich reared in a semi-intensive farming system was presented with a reddish protruded mass through the vent opening, including a history of drowsiness, poor appetite, and lack of droppings. Clinical examinations demonstrated a complete cloacal prolapse without any devitalization or necrosis of the involved tissues. Laboratory examinations revealed no parasitic or bacterial enteritis. Hematobiochemical analysis indicated low serum calcium. The case was surgically treated, which involved repositioning the prolapsed cloaca to its anatomical location and subsequent vent narrowing with a purse-string suture while ensuring adequate space for the passage of droppings. Postoperatively, supportive medications and formulated feed with vitamin-mineral supplements were provided. The ostrich experienced an uneventful recovery. The purse-string suture encompassing the vent was removed on the 8th postoperative day. No complications were reported nine weeks after surgery. In brief, mineral deficiencies, particularly reduced serum calcium levels, may be associated with cloacal prolapse in young ostriches. Prompt surgical intervention and a balanced nutritional regimen can effectively facilitate recovery.
German DVO risk score identified more patients requiring treatment compared to FRAX score in a retrospective analysis of women evaluated for osteoporosis
Authors: Frank Anna , Witzel Judith Charlotte , Heppner Christina , Lamersdorf Annette , Leha Andreas , Siggelkow Heide
Published: October 2024

In a retrospective study of 555 female patients, we compared osteoporosis-specific fracture risk probabilities and treatment recommendations according to the German DVO guidelines with those resulting from the internationally implemented FRAX score. We present the differences between both scores, which also identified different individual patients as in need of therapy.
Purpose
Fracture risk determination is essential when recommending treatment in osteoporosis management. This study compares and contrasts the risk probabilities of major osteoporotic and hip fractures calculated by the DVO score established in German-speaking countries with those of the FRAX tool.
Methods
We retrospectively analysed data from 555 female patients (mean age 64.2 ± 10.3 years) evaluated for osteoporosis. For the DVO score, we set the therapy threshold of > 30% for vertebral and hip fractures as suggested by DVO guidelines before 2023. Major osteoporotic fracture (MOF) and hip fracture risk (HF) were calculated based on corresponding FRAX scores. We applied the internationally most common therapy threshold of ≥ 20% for MOF and ≥ 3% for HF and subsequently determined the “DVO-equivalent risk levels” for FRAX-based assessment.
Results
Based on DVO score, 52.8% of women had a 10-year risk of hip and vertebral fractures > 30%. Most patients were identified by HF ≥ 3% without BMD (56%). The 14.6% of patients identified for treatment only by DVO score presented a higher percentage of spinal fractures (38.3% vs. 18.6%), whereas the 10.6% of patients only identified by FRAX including BMD presented a higher percentage of peripheral fractures (40.7% vs. 29.6%). The thresholds for this “DVO-equivalent risk level” for ‘FRAX with BMD’ would be ≥ 10% for MOF and ≥ 2.6% for HF.
Given the differences in the DVO and FRAX scores, it would be highly recommendable to consider both scores when assessing individual women for treatment.
The value of Nuclear UBTF expression for hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Yu Hao , Su Peng-Fei , Qiu Hui-Wen , Yang Jun-Feng , Zhou Hong-Kun , Dong Wei , Jin Guang-Zhi , Huang Wen-Tao , Xu Jing
Published: October 2024

Background
This study aimed to investigate the value of nuclear UBTF for HCC.
Methods
The expression of UBTF was detected by western blot and immunohistochemistry. 289 HCC patients were included in this study. X-tile software was used to calculate the outcome-based cut-point of UBTF expression. Pearson’s χ2 test was used to analyze the association between UBTF expression and clinicopathologic parameters. Kaplan-Meier analysis and Cox regression analysis were used to evaluate prognostic factors.
Results
UBTF expression was significant higher in HCC nucleus than paired adjacent tissues (p = 0.0247). Nuclear UBTF expression was associated with AFP, liver cirrhosis, and tumor size. For OS, tumor size, tumor number, nuclear UBTF/AFP combination were the independent risk factors (all P < 0.05). For TTR, liver cirrhosis, tumor size, tumor number, nuclear UBTF/AFP combination were the independent risk factors (all P < 0.05). Survival curves showed that OS (P = 0.003) and TTR (P = 0.003) with high nuclear UBTF were worse than those with low nuclear UBTF, especially when nuclear UBTF and AFP were considered simultaneously. UBTF expression was significantly higher in HCC than LC (P = 0.0305), whereas no significant differences between LGDN and LC (P = 0.0937), also HGDN and LC (P = 0.4674).
Discussion
Our study confirms that nuclear UBTF is a valuable prognostic biomarker for HCC.
Analysis of Genitourinary Rhabdomyosarcoma in Phase 3 Clinical Trials
Authors: Campbell Timothy , Hunt Trevor C. , Li Ashley , Cheng Zijing , Malshy Kamil , Doersch Karen , Bandari Jathin
Published: October 2024

Purpose:
Pediatric Rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS) is a morbid and often lethal condition characterized by a paucity of clinical data. Beyond a detailed risk categorization system, it is unclear if genitourinary (GU) sites (bladder/prostate, paratesticular, female organs) have outcomes distinct from non-GU sites. This study pools primary data from phase-3 clinical trials involving pediatric RMS to evaluate this question.
Methods and Materials:
We obtained primary data from three Children’s Oncology Group pediatric RMS trials
(NCT00075582, NCT00354744, NCT00354835) evaluating low- (LR), intermediate- (IMR), and
high risk (HR) Pediatric RMS. Survival analysis was conducted using the Kaplan-Meier method, with Event-Free Survival (EFS) defined per protocol specifications.
Results:
599 subject records were included in the analysis (111 GU RMS, 488 non-GU RMS). For
subjects with GU RMS, overall survival (OS) was superior to non-GU RMS (HRR 0.55, 95% CI 0.35-0.87, p=0.009). In this same group EFS superiority was not statistically significant compared to non-GU RMS (HRR 0.88 95% CI, 0.63-1.22, p=0.43). In the LR population, GU primary site was associated with improved OS that was not statistically significant (HRR 0.37 95% CI 0.07-1.84, p=0.21) and less favorable EFS (HRR 2.84 95% CI, 1.13-7.12, p=0.02).
Conclusions:
In RMS, a GU primary site is linked to improved OS compared to non-GU sites, although LR GU RMS shows less favorable EFS. Our findings reinforce the association between GU primary sites and better OS outcomes in RMS, warranting further investigation into the surrogacy of EFS for OS in GU RMS.
Electrophysiological effects of propofol on glutamatergic neurons in mice Pre- Bötzinger Complex
Authors: Chen Ya , Yu Tian , Jiang Junli
Published: October 2024

Background
Propofol, a commonly used intravenous anesthetic, can lead to a range of respiratory adverse events, particularly varying degrees of respiratory depression, which is closely linked to patient safety. However, the mechanisms underlying these respiratory adverse events caused by propofol remain unclear. In mammals, the initiation of breathing relies on rhythmic activity of glutamatergic neurons within the pre-Bötzinger complex in the lower brainstem. Previous studies have suggested that propofol-induced respiratory depression might be associated with glutamatergic neurons in the pre-Bötzinger complex, though the precise mechanisms are not well understood. This study aims to investigate the effects of propofol on the electrophysiological properties of glutamatergic neurons in the pre-Bötzinger complex.
Methods
We first employed electrophysiological techniques to classify glutamatergic neurons within the pre-Bötzinger complex. Based on this classification, we then continuously infused different concentrations of propofol to observe its effects on the electrophysiological properties of these various types of glutamatergic neurons.
Results
We found that Type 1 neurons exhibited a longer latency in excitation, while Type 2 neurons did not show this delayed excitation. Furthermore, continuous infusion of propofol at concentrations of 5 µM and 10 µM was observed to shorten the latency period of Type 1 glutamatergic neurons, but did not affect the latency period of Type 2 glutamatergic neurons.
Conclusion
Our study introduces a novel method for classifying glutamatergic neurons and reveals how propofol affects the activity of different types of glutamatergic neurons within the pre-Bötzinger complex. These findings contribute to understanding the cellular basis of propofol-induced respiratory depression.
Clinical characteristics analysis of patients who underwent lens exchange or explantation after implantable collamer lens implantation
Authors: Huang TianZe , Wan Ting , Jin HongYing
Published: October 2024

Background
This study aims to analyze the clinical characteristics of patients receiving secondary lens exchange or explantation after implantable collamer lens (ICL) implantation.
Methods
This retrospective study included 2347 eyes of 1175 consecutive patients receiving ICL or toric ICL (TICL) implantation. Clinical characteristics and ocular biometric measurements of patients who underwent secondary lens exchange or explantation (Group Ex) were analyzed. Visual outcomes and safety indices of secondary surgery were compared with the control group (Group C).
Results
The overall exchange or explantation rate was 1.11%. Eight eyes (0.34%) exhibited an excessive vault height, which was corrected after exchange surgery. Seventeen eyes (0.72%) exhibited a low vault, of which one eye underwent explantation, 11 eyes achieved a vault > 250 µm after exchange surgery, and five eyes had a vault ≤ 250 µm. One eye (0.04%) experienced repeated vertical TICL rotation and was exchanged with a nontoric lens. The clinical characteristics associated with an insufficient vault included a higher crystal sagittal height, smaller ciliary processes, and a wide iris-ciliary angle (ICA). The efficacy index at one month postoperatively was significantly higher in Group C (1.20 ± 0.20) than in Group Ex (1.10 ± 0.19) (P < 0.05). The safety index was 1.16 ± 0.17 and 1.22 ± 0.18 in Group Ex and Group C (P > 0.05), respectively.
Conclusions
Abnormal vault height after ICL implantation is the main reason for secondary exchange or explantation surgery. Biometric characteristics, including higher crystal sagittal height, smaller ciliary processes, and wider ICA, were associated with low vault height.
Trial Registration:
Registration number: ChiCTR2100051739. Prospectively registered: 01 October 2021.
Intermittent Fasting Improves Glucose Metabolism Disorders Induced by High-fat Diet through Modulation of Gut Microbiota and Serum Metabolism in Middle-aged Mice
Authors: Li Ziru , Chen Sufang , Yin Bingbing , Wei Jiacun , Wang Duofei , Zhou Huoxiang , Sun Zhi
Published: October 2024

Background
Intermittent fasting (IF) has received wide attention as an effective diet strategy. Existing studies shown that IF is a promising approach for weight control, improving insulin sensitivity and reducing type 2 diabetes (T2D) prevalence.
Methods
Twenty-eight 8-month-old male C57BL/6J mice were randomly divided into a normal control group (NC), a high-fat diet group (HF) and an IF group. Body weight (BW) and food intake were monitored weekly. After 20 weeks the intraperitoneal glucose tolerance test (IPGTT), oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT), and intraperitoneal insulin tolerance test (IPITT) were performed weekly in sequence. Fresh faeces were collected to examine changes in gut microbiota, and untargeted metabolite profiling was conducted on serum samples.
Results
IF significantly reduced weight gain in middle-aged mice fed a high-fat diet, reduced fat mass and liver weight, and improved glucose tolerance and insulin sensitivity. 16S rRNA gene sequencing revealed that IF significantly reduced the Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes (F/B) ratio by increased Muribaculaceae, Bacteroides, Parabacteroides, and decreased Bilophila, Colidextribacter, Oscillibacter. Spearman's correlation analysis indicated that these bacteria were strongly correlated with obesity-related parameters and serum metabolites such as capryloylglycine, N-acetylglycine, 4-ethyl-6-[(3E)-2-ethyl-3-hexen-1-yl]-6-methyl-1,2-dioxan-3-yl acetic acid, etc.
Conclusion
IF improves glucose metabolism, regulates gut microbiota, and alters serum metabolites. This provides a new pathway for trials testing diabetes prevention in middle-aged and elderly patients.
Oxaliplatin induced peripheral neuropathy and associated factors among colorectal cancer patients in Tanzania
Authors: Gonjobe Mohamed Salat , Dharsee Nazima , Md Emmanuel , Maunda Khamza Kibwana
Published: October 2024

Background
Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the leading malignancies globally and chemotherapy forms the bulk of its management. Oxaliplatin is one of the standard drugs used for management of colorectal cancer. Oxaliplatin induced peripheral neuropathy (OIPN) is one of the most debilitating toxicities encountered which lead to dose modification and premature treatment discontinuation with a great impact on quality of life. Therefore, we armed to determine the prevalence, severity and factors associated with OIPN among colorectal cancer patients treated in Tanzania.
Methods
This was a cross-sectional study conducted at Ocean Road Cancer Institute (ORCI) to all histologically confirmed CRC patients who were on oxaliplatin-based chemotherapy regimens. Data was collected using EORT-QLQ CIPN20 questionnaire and analysis was done using SPSS version 23 and p value < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.
Results
A total of 62 patients were recruited, the prevalence of OIPN was 71% and 59.7% for acute and chronic symptoms respectively. Obese patients were 21.66 times higher at risk of suffering from chronic OIPN compared to individuals who have normal body weight (p < 0.05). Cumulative Dose ≤ 780 showed a protective effect (p < 0.005) in development of OIPN. For the severity of acute OIPN, it was found that 4.8% had grade 4 symptoms, while 8.1% had grade 3 symptoms, and 69.4% had grade 2 symptoms, and 17.7% of the patients had grade 1. In patients with chronic OIPN, 13.5% had grade 3 neuropathies, 24.3% had grade 2 and 62.2% had grade 1 neuropathy.
Conclusion
The prevalence of acute and chronic OIPN among colorectal cancer patients managed at ORCI was 71.0% and 59.7% respectively, with most patients developing grade 1 and 2 neuropathy for both acute and chronic symptoms. Number of cycles, cumulative dose and BMI were the major factors associated with the neuropathy.
Impact of extended endocrine therapy for patients with risk factors for late recurrence in estrogen receptor-positive, human epidermal growth factor receptor 2-negative breast cancer after 5 years of endocrine therapy
Authors: Ito Masahiro , Amari Masakazu , Sato Akiko , Hikichi Masahiro , Tsurumi Natsuko , Otofuji Hinano , Saji Shigehira
Published: October 2024

Purpose
Extended endocrine therapy shows promise for reducing the recurrence of estrogen receptor (ER)-positive, human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2)-negative breast cancer. However, its benefits for patients with high-risk factors for late recurrence remain unclear, particularly for premenopausal patients. This study aimed to explore the impact of extended endocrine therapy on patients with risk factors for late recurrence of postmenopausal and premenopausal ER-positive, HER2-negative breast cancer.
Methods
We retrospectively analyzed data from patients with ER-positive, HER2-negative breast cancer at Tohoku Kosai Hospital who were disease-free after 5 years of adjuvant endocrine therapy. The patients were classified as high risk based on lymph node positivity, tumor size > 2 cm, or high tumor grade. The high-risk group was further divided into the extended and stop therapy groups. Propensity score matching was applied to balance the baseline characteristics. Disease-free survival (DFS) was the primary endpoint.
Results
Among the 1,474 eligible patients, 224 received extended endocrine therapy and 1,250 stopped the therapy. After propensity score matching, the high-risk group comprised 348 patients (174 patients in each group). The extended therapy group had significantly higher 10-year DFS and distant DFS rates than did the stop group. The multivariate Cox model indicated a 69% reduction in recurrence risk for the extended therapy group.
Conclusions
Extended endocrine therapy significantly improves DFS in patients with high-risk ER-positive, HER2-negative breast cancer, especially in those with large tumors, lymph node involvement, and high tumor grade. These findings support personalized treatment strategies for enhancing long-term outcomes.
Impact of mean platelet volume to lymphocyte ratio on short-term clinical outcomes in patients with acute ischemic stroke
Authors: Peng Ying , Wang Hui , Wu Yakun , Zhao Yuan , chen Liuxi , Feng Kai
Published: October 2024

Background
The Mean platelet volume-to-lymphocyte ratio (MPVLR) is an emerging and cost-effective biomarker that integrates MPV and lymphocytes, reflecting both thrombotic activity and inflammatory responses. Despite its potential, relatively few studies have explored the relationship between MPVLR and the prognosis of acute ischemic stroke (AIS). This study aims to investigate the correlation between MPVLR and short-term clinical outcomes in patients with AIS, providing insights into its prognostic significance.
Method
Data were collected from patients with AIS admitted to the Neurology Department of Beijing Shunyi District Hospital from January 2022 to August 2022. Patients were consecutively included and followed up three months post-symptom onset. The analysis of multivariable logistic regression was used to explore the association of MPVLR with poor functional outcomes. Additionally, a receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was analyzed to examine the predictive value of MPVLR.
Results
In this study enrolling 362 AIS patients, the MPVLR was found to be substantially higher in the group with poor outcomes compared to the group with good outcomes (P < 0.05). Patients in the lower tertile group had lower mRS scores (P < 0.05). In addition, previous stroke or TIA, MPVLR, and NIHSS scores at admission were identified as significant predictors of poor outcomes three months after AIS. The ROC curve revealed that the optimal cutoff value for MPVLR to predict poor outcomes at three months was 5.547. And the area under the curve for MPVLR was 0.727 (95% CI: 0.672–0.783), with a sensitivity of 82.2% and a specificity of 52.9%.
Conclusions
Elevated MPVLR values at admission were significantly correlated with short-term poor functional outcomes in AIS patients.
Efficacy of Combining Acetazolamide with Loop Diuretics Versus Using Double Dose Loop Diuretics for Decongestion in Patients with Chronic Kidney Disease: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Sriswa Jiranat , Chaiprasert Amnart , Supasyndh Ouppatham , Satirapoj Bancha
Published: October 2024

Background
The combination of acetazolamide and loop diuretics in hospitalized heart failure patients has demonstrated positive results in improving diuresis and decongestion. However, the effectiveness of this combination in chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients with volume overload remains to be determined.
Methods
CKD patients with fluid overload, confirmed by bioimpedance spectroscopy, were randomized to receive either oral acetazolamide 250 mg/day plus furosemide or a doubled dose of furosemide. Volume status, changes in body fluid compartments (assessed by body composition monitoring), and urinary sodium were evaluated at baseline and 2 weeks. The primary outcomes were the proportion of patients with a bodyweight reduction of more than 2 kg or 5% and the mean change in body weight at 2 weeks.
Results
Fifty-two CKD patients with an estimated glomerular filtration rate of 38 mL/min/1.73 m² were included. Body weight reduction of more than 2 kg at week 2 occurred in 40.7% of the combination group compared to 12% of the doubled-dose group (risk ratio [RR] 3.39, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.06–10.7). Body weight reduction of more than 5% at week 2 occurred in 25.9% of the combination group compared to 0% of the doubled-dose group (RR 2.25, 95% CI 1.62–3.12). The mean difference in body weight reduction between the combination and doubled-dose groups was − 1.37 kg (95% CI -2.50 to -0.24). No serious adverse events were reported in either group.
Conclusion
Adding acetazolamide to loop diuretics improves volume overload in CKD patients without significant or serious side effects.
Identification of host-microbiome interactions in nasal diseases using multiomics integration
Authors: Liang Yibo , Chen Zheming , Zhang Chenting , Li Zhili , Liu Jiarui , Sun Wenjuan , Li Jianxin , Zhi Jingtai , Zhang Guimin
Published: October 2024

Background
An imbalance in the nasal microbiome is thought to be closely related to the development of nasal diseases. However, nasal microbiome-host interactions have rarely been studied.
Objective
The aim of this study was to comprehensively investigate the cross-talk between mucosal gene expression and the microbiota in patients with chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNP) and nasal inverted papilloma (NIP).
Methods
We performed a cross-sectional study of 43 patients with CRSwNP, 27 patients with NIP and 34 controls using 5R 16S rRNA gene sequencing. A total of 40 CRSwNP samples, 20 NIP samples and 20 control samples were analyzed according to host transcriptome.
Results
This study describes the microbiome characteristics of the specific nasal mucosal microenvironment in patients with CRSwNP and NIP. In CRSwNP and NIP samples, host gene-bacteria interaction analysis revealed multiple host pathways that were associated with the nasal microbiota, mainly including multiple host pathways such as those related to immunity, metabolism, host defense, and cell proliferation. In addition, in both nasal diseases, the shared host pathways that were associated with the nasal microbiota were mainly immune response-related pathways, such as the NF-kappa B signaling pathway. In CRSwNP, disease-specific pathways that were associated with the nasal microbiota were mainly related to host recognition and the immune response, while in NIP, disease-specific pathways were mainly related to cell proliferation. Based on Bayesian network analysis, we found that the abundance of Geobacillus stearothermophilus in nasal polyps was significantly correlated with the NF-kB pathway activation, and we further proved this correlation.
Conclusion
Our study highlights the complex interplay between the nasal microbiota and host-population patterns, with disease-specific and shared host gene-microbiome associations associated with different features of nasal disease. Our findings may provide new insights into the pathophysiology of nasal diseases and a theoretical basis for future microbiota-based treatment strategies for nasal diseases.
Colorectal Cancer Knowledge and Screening Awareness in Syria: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Alabed Ammer , Samha Raghad , Nahhat Fouad , Droubi Sami , Fawaz Hassan , Latifeh Youssef
Published: October 2024

Background:
Colorectal cancer (CRC) ranks as the third most common cancer globally, with rising incidence in developing countries due to lifestyle and dietary shifts. CRC often presents with late-stage symptoms, leading to higher mortality. Early detection through screening significantly improves survival rates. In Syria, CRC is the second most common cancer, but screening rates remain low, especially following the decade-long war. This study aims to assess the knowledge of CRC among Syrians to guide prevention and detection strategies.
Methods:
A cross-sectional online survey was conducted from September 27 to October 21, 2023, across six Syrian governorates: Damascus, Homs, Aleppo, Lattakia, Hama, and Tartous. A self-administered questionnaire, distributed via social media, assessed socio-demographics, CRC knowledge, and perceptions of screening methods. A total of 772 participants completed the survey. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS v28.0, with a Chi-square test to explore differences in knowledge based on socio-demographic factors.
Results:
The study included 772 participants, 42.6% of them aged 30–35 years. The majority were female (64.4%) and married (56.3%). Only 27.8% considered themselves informed about CRC. While 54.8% had heard of colonoscopy, only 15.4% had undergone the procedure. Significant knowledge gaps were identified, particularly regarding the link between adenocarcinoma polyps and CRC (29.9%), the role of diet (33.2%), and the protective effect of aspirin (17.7%). Older individuals demonstrated higher awareness levels, particularly in recognizing CRC's hereditary nature and the potential for cure. Education and economic status were also strongly associated with better CRC knowledge, and males generally exhibited higher awareness than females.
Conclusion:
This study reveals significant gaps in CRC knowledge among Syrians, influenced by factors such as age, gender, education, and economic status. The findings underscore the urgent need for targeted health education and accessible screening programs to improve CRC awareness and reduce its incidence and mortality in Syria. Further research should address the study's limitations, including sampling bias and the cross-sectional design, to develop more effective public health interventions.
Irrelevant Region Preserving for Counterfactual Image Manipulation
Authors: Peng Yinuo , Wang Yuxuan , Wang Chenyue , Wang Xin , Pi Jiatian
Published: October 2024

Image manipulation is one of the most significant and potential research topics in multimodality. Several existing methods based on Contrastive-Language-Image-Pretraining (CLIP) have achieved high-resolution image editing recently, but the challenging problem of complex editing and attribute disentanglement has not been solved yet. In this paper, we propose an image editing method combining the powerful capability of complex editing with the accurate protection of the irrelevant attributes, simultaneously addressing above two challenging issues. To gain a more comprehensive semantic representation, we design a simple but effective structure with the cross-attention mechanism, allowing better fusion between text and image feature. In addition, a mask-controlled method is applied to keep the semantics of irrelevant regions unchanged after editing. We conduct extensive experiments and analysis to evaluate the generative capability of our method. The results demonstrate that our design successfully achieves semantic representation and accurate editing, and outperforms the compared methods in image quality.
Beating the Ramsey limit on sensing with deterministic qubit control
Authors: Levenson-Falk Eli , Hecht Malida , Saurav Kumar , Vlachos Evangelos , Lidar Daniel
Published: October 2024

Quantum sensors promise revolutionary advances in medical imaging, energy production, mass detection, geodesy, foundational physics research, and a host of other fields. In many sensors, the signal takes the form of a changing qubit frequency, which is detected with a Ramsey interference measurement. Unfortunately, environmental noise decoheres the qubit state, reducing signal. Here we introduce a protocol for enhancing the sensitivity of a measurement of a qubit's frequency in the presence of decoherence. We use a continuous drive to stabilize one component of the qubit's Bloch vector, enhancing the effect of a small static frequency shift. We demonstrate our protocol on a superconducting qubit, enhancing sensitivity per measurement shot by 1.65x and sensitivity per qubit evolution time by 1.09x compared to standard Ramsey interferometry. We explore the protocol theoretically and numerically, finding maximum enhancements of 1.96x and 1.18x, respectively. We also show that the protocol is robust to parameter miscalibrations. Our protocol provides an unconditional enhancement in signal-to-noise ratio compared to standard Ramsey interferometry. It requires no feedback and no extra control or measurement resources, and can be immediately applied in a wide variety of quantum computing and quantum sensor technologies to enhance their sensitivities.
Comparing visual and acoustic detectability of two coastal cetacean species off Sindhudurg, India, to better inform integrated survey protocol.
Authors: Bopardikar Isha , Harris Danielle , Robin V.V , Klinck Holger
Published: October 2024

The Indian Ocean humpback dolphin (Sousa plumbea) and the Indo-Pacific finless porpoise (Neophocaena phocaenoides) are resident to the inshore waters of India. Despite urgent conservation concerns facing both species, population assessments, and long-term monitoring efforts face several challenges, particularly due to limitations in conducting conventional visual surveys. Our study explores the use of combined acoustic and visual surveys along a 376 km2 area off the Sindhudurg coast, India, to address these limitations. We begin by examining the two platforms for efficiency in species detection by comparing encounter rates across acoustic and visual methods. Acoustic (0.04 groups/km) and visual (0.03 groups/km) encounter rates for humpback dolphins do not show a stark difference. However, acoustic (0.12 groups/km) and visual (0.03 groups/km) encounter rates for finless porpoises vary greatly. Visual and acoustic group size estimates also vary for both species. We then use generalized additive mixed models (GAMM) to determine factors responsible for variation in detectability between the two platforms. Distance from shore and vessel traffic are variables affecting mixed detections of humpback dolphins. Acoustic detections for finless porpoises are most influenced by distance from shore and depth. Our findings highlight the importance of considering species-specific variations in acoustic and visual detectability when designing surveys for these co-occurring species.
Assessing Facility Capacity to Provide Safe Abortion and Post-abortion Care in Liberia: A 2021 Signal Function Survey
Authors: Koko Victor S , Kung Stephanie , Doe Chelsea R , Candy Neima , Harmon-Gray Wahdea-mai , Mutuku Esther , Ushie Boniface Ayanbekongshie , Juma Kenneth
Published: October 2024

Background: Access to safe abortion is legally restricted in Liberia, forcing women to resolve unintended pregnancies through unsafe methods, leading to severe illnesses and deaths. Liberia’s Government has committed to addressing abortion-related maternal mortalities by availing comprehensive post-abortion care. However, limited information exists on the readiness of health facilities to provide quality abortion-related care. This paper assesses the extent to which health facilities in Liberia are ready to deliver safe abortion and post abortion care services.Methods: Data for this analysis are drawn from a signal function survey conducted across 48 facilities in Liberia from September to November 2021. The signal function survey captures several safe abortion and post-abortion care-related services, including staff training, equipment, commodities, and supplies. Data were collected from health providers knowledgeable about abortion-related care such as safe abortion and post-abortion care across a sampled health facilities using a structured questionnaire. Data analysis involved summarizing proportions of clinics, health centers, and hospitals with the capacity to provide either basic and/or comprehensive safe-abortion and post-abortion care.Results: Out of the 48 facilities, 63% and 28% were classified as capable of providing basic and comprehensive post-abortion care (PAC) services respectively. Fewer facilities (27%) could provide basic safe-abortion care (SAC) and comprehensive SAC (16%). Differences by facility level were statistically significant for basic and comprehensive PAC. The PAC signal functions fulfilled by the fewest facilities included referral capacity, blood transfusion, and surgical or laparotomy capacity.Conclusion: The study highlights the limitations to the provision of basic SAC and PAC among our sample of public health facilities in Liberia and the poor capacity of these health facilities to provide comprehensive SAC and PAC services in particular. Full implementation of the 2019 National Comprehensive Abortion Care Guidelines could strengthen critical SAC and PAC services by ensuring adequate resources and training of the healthcare workforce.
Ultra-high-frequency Supercapacitors Surpassing Dynamic Limit of Electrical Double Layer Effects
Authors: Wang Xiaohong , Li Zhangshanhao , Xu Minghao , Xia Yier , Yan Ziyun , Dai Jianyou , Hu Bingmeng , Feng Haizhao , Xu Sixing
Published: October 2024

The prosperity of microelectronics has intensified the requirement for miniaturized power systems using capacitors with high capacity and broad frequency ranges. Electrochemical supercapacitors (SCs) stand out with their superior capacitance density, surpassing traditional electrolytic capacitors (ECs) by at least two orders of magnitude. However, the intrinsic slow ion dynamics of electrical double layer effects greatly limit SCs’ characteristic frequency, constraining their applicability in microsystems. This work initially constructs a near-ideal micro electrochemical SC, featuring the monolayer graphene as a working electrode, to reveal the ceiling of electrochemical capacitance characteristic frequency. To address this limitation, we introduce a novel Hybrid Electrochemical Electrolytic Capacitor (HEEC) design, which asymmetrically coupling the electrochemical and dielectric effects. At low frequencies, the HEEC's electrochemical segment provides sufficient capacity, while its electrolytic segment takes over at high frequencies, broadening the frequency range. Consequently, the HEEC boasts considerable capacitance density across a broad frequency range. Employing our developed wafer-scale microfabrication techniques, we showcase a micro HEEC device, achieving a groundbreaking characteristic frequency of 44 kHz and a volume capacitance density of 800 μF/cm³. To demonstrate its practicality in microsystems, the HEEC device is integrated with a power management chip and buck circuit module, respectively, with only 2 % space usage compared to commercial AECs, achieving the same performance.
The Case for Super-Eddington Accretion: Connecting Weak X-ray and UV Line Emission in JWST Broad-Line AGN During the First Gyr of Cosmic Time
Authors: Lambrides Erini , Garofali Kristen , Larson Rebecca , Ptak Andrew , Chiaberge Marco , Long Arianna , Hutchison Taylor , Norman Colin , Akins Hollis , Berg Danielle , Chisholm John , Civano Francesca , Cloonan Aidan , Endsley Ryan , Faisst Andreas , Gilli Roberto , Gillman Steven , Hirschmann Michaela , Kartaltepe Jeyhan , Kocevski Dale , Kokorev Vasily , Pacucci Fabio , Richardson Chris , Whalen Kelly , McKinney Jed
Published: October 2024

A multitude of JWST studies reveal a surprising over-abundance of over-massive accreting super-massive black holes (SMBHs) -- leading to a deepening tension between theory and observation in the first billion years of cosmic time. Across X-ray to infrared wavelengths, models built off of pre-JWST predictions fail to easily reproduce observed AGN signatures (or lack thereof), driving uncertainty around the true nature of these sources. Using a sample of JWST AGN identified via their broadened Halpha emission and covered by the deepest X-ray surveys, we find neither any measurable X-ray emission nor any detection of high-ionization emission lines frequently associated with accreting SMBHs. We propose that these sources are accreting at or beyond the Eddington limit, which reduces the need for efficient production of heavy SMBH seeds at cosmic dawn. Using a theoretical model of super-Eddington accretion, we can produce the observed relative dearth of both X-ray and ultraviolet emission, as well as the high Balmer decrements, without the need for significant dust attenuation. This work indicates that super-Eddington accretion is easily achieved through-out the early Universe, and further study is required to determine what environments are required to trigger this mode of black hole growth.
Modelling the long-term potential effects of modern irrigation systems on soil-water and salt balances, and crop-water productivity in semi-arid regions
Authors: Khan Muhammad Hamed , Singh Ranvir , Clothier Brent , Vries Tonny T.
Published: October 2024

Modernization of irrigation systems is considered to improve irrigation efficiency, save water, and increase crop yields in water-scare semi-arid regions. We conducted long-term (10-years) simulations to evaluate the potential effects of three different irrigation scenarios on soil water and salt balances, and crop water productivity of cotton-wheat crops in the Hakra Branch Canal command of Punjab, Pakistan. The physically based agro-hydrological model, Soil-Water-Atmosphere-Plant (SWAP) was applied to simulate the long-term (2007–2017) effects of three irrigation scenarios; (1) current surface irrigation (baseline reference) based on local farmers observations, (2) improved precision surface irrigation system (PSIS), and (3) a high-efficiency irrigation system (HEIS). The HEIS scenario, defined as using sprinkler irrigation to bring the soil back to the field capacity, resulted in 50% less irrigation needs as compared to the baseline scenario. This reduction in irrigation, however, resulted into a relatively higher soil salt build-up causing a reduction of 18% − 30% in the wheat crop yields. The HEIS scenario (noted as HEIS_LF), with an additional irrigation of 60 mm at the start of crop season followed by an additional 10 mm with each irrigation interval, reduced the salt build up and its adverse effects of the crop yields. However, HEIS_LF scenario resulted in the similar irrigation amounts, soil water and salt balances, crop yields and water productivity values as achieved by the PSIS scenario, defined as a fixed depth of 80 mm surface irrigation at each flexible irrigation intervals maintaining high relative crop transpiration rates. This suggests limited scope for irrigation savings by adopting high-efficiency irrigation systems, such as sprinkler, with marginal quality (> 0.9 dS m− 1) irrigation waters in semi-arid regions of Pakistan. However, there is scope of improving surface irrigation (e.g. PSIS) by reducing irrigation depths (through field levelling) and introducing flexible irrigation scheduling.
Studying the effect of education on women's pap-smear knowledge, attitudes, and behavior
Authors: Rahbar Fateme , Rezapour-Nasrabad Rafat , Alamolhoda Seideh Hanieh , Azimi Hamideh , Ataei Sobhan , Mohamad amirhosein Khan
Published: October 2024

Background
Prevention and early diagnosis are crucial factors in the treatment and control of cervical cancer. The present study investigates the relationship between demographic characteristics and the effect of education on the knowledge, attitude, and performance of women who were referred to Varamin health centers and underwent Pop-smear tests.
Methods
This descriptive-analytical study was conducted in 2021 on 311 women who were selected by a convenience sampling method. Data were collected from the samples from August 15, 2021, to March 15, 2021. First, the level of their knowledge, attitude, and performance was evaluated by a researcher-made questionnaire whose validity and reliability have been confirmed. Then, the women were given the necessary education regarding the Pop-smear test. After one, the questionnaire was given to them again. Data were analyzed using the Pearson correlation coefficient, ANOVA, and paired t-test.
Results
Based on the results of one-way analysis of variance, before the education, the level of knowledge and performance increased with increasing age. However, after education, with increasing age, the subjects’ level of knowledge decreased and their performance increased.
Conclusions
It is necessary to provide comprehensive education for women about the Pop-smear test. Educating young, illiterate, or low-educated women, women without financial resources, and unemployed women, women without children, single, or divorced women, and people without underlying diseases should be prioritized.
Cytosolic Phospholipase A2 in Infiltrating Monocyte-Derived Macrophages Does Not Impair Recovery After Spinal Cord Injury in Female Mice
Authors: Glaser Ethan P. , Kopper Timothy J. , Bailey William M. , Kumari Reena , Kashif Hassan K. , Stewart Andrew N. , Gensel John C.
Published: October 2024

Spinal cord injury (SCI) leads to permanent motor and sensory loss that is exacerbated by intraspinal inflammation that persists months to years after injury. After SCI, monocyte-derived macrophages (MDMs) infiltrate the lesion to aid in myelin-rich debris clearance. During debris clearance, MDMs adopt a proinflammatory phenotype that exacerbates neurodegeneration and hinders recovery. The underlying cause of the lipid-mediated MDM phenotype shift is unclear. Our previous work suggests that cytosolic phospholipase A2 (cPLA2) plays a role in the proinflammatory potentiating effect of myelin on macrophages in vitro. Cytosolic phospholipase A2 (cPLA2) frees arachidonic acid from phospholipids, generating eicosanoids that play an important role in inflammation, immunity, and host defense. cPLA2 is expressed in macrophages along with multiple other cell types after SCI, and cPLA2 inhibition has been reported to both reduce and exacerbate secondary injury pathology recovery. The role of cPLA2 in MDMs after SCI is not fully understood. We hypothesize that cPLA2 activation in MDMs after SCI contributes to secondary injury. Here, we report that cPLA2 plays an important role in the myelin-induced inflammatory macrophage phenotype in vitro using macrophages derived from cPLA2 knockout bone marrow. Furthermore, to investigate the role of cPLA2 in MDMs after SCI, we generated female bone marrow chimeras using cPLA2 knock-out donors and assessed locomotor recovery using the Basso Mouse Scale (BMS), CatWalk gait analysis system, and horizontal ladder task over six weeks. We also evaluated tissue sparing and intralesional axon density six weeks after injury. cPLA2 KO chimeras did not display altered locomotor recovery or tissue pathology after SCI compared to WT chimera controls. These data suggest that although cPLA2 plays a critical role in myelin-mediated potentiation of proinflammatory macrophage activation in vitro, it may not contribute to secondary injury pathology in vivo after SCI.
Organocatalyzed Skeletal Editing of Unstrained Rings via Wolff-type Rearrangement: Modular Synthesis of BN- Isosteres and [1,2]- Azaborines
Authors: Kumar Ravindra , Singh Akansha , kant Ruchir , Grellier Mary
Published: October 2024

Herein, we report a rare example of organocatalyzed skeletal editing of unstrained rings (n = 4–8) to ring-expansion via Wolff-type rearrangement and through regioselective fixation of carbon and nitrogen atom. Strategy employed 2-formylarylboronic acid as C-B surrogate and TMSN3 as an exogenous single nitrogen source; allowed the de novo rapid synthesis of BN isosteres by forging C-C, C-N and B-N bonds under single operation. The developed method proved to be compatible with wide substrate scope (50 examples) including cyclic ketones and diverse heterocycles afforded 1C ring expanded [1,2]-azaborines. Reaction was also effective to acyclic ketones to give BN naphthalene isosteres. Control experiments and DFT study dictate the plausible reaction pathways following [1,2]-C-C/C-H shift, analogous to Wolff rearrangement.