bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Clinical observation on 184 cases of transvaginal cervical cerclage
Authors: Zhou Min , Chen Huijun
Published: March 2024

Objective: To analyze the clinical characteristics and pregnancy outcomes of 184 pregnant women with cervical insufficiency (CI) who underwent transvaginal cervical cerclage (TVC) surgery, and to evaluate its effectiveness and clinical significance.
Method: A retrospective analysis was conducted on the case data of 184 pregnant women who underwent vaginal cervical cerclage from January 2017 to December 2023, including gestational age, gestational frequency, parity, cerclage time, cervical length before cerclage, extended gestational weeks after cerclage, pregnancy outcome, and newborn condition. Firstly, based on the cervical length at the time of cerclage, they were divided into a<2.0cm group (64 cases) and a ≥ 2.0cm group (83 cases); According to the timing of cervical cerclage surgery, 102 cases were divided into a scheduled group (including 44 cases of preventive cerclage and 58 cases of therapeutic cerclage) and an emergency group of 82 cases; The selective cervical cerclage group was divided into an early group (cervical cerclage performed at 9-16 weeks) of 44 cases and an advanced group (cervical cerclage performed at 16-24 weeks) of 45 cases based on the number of cycles of cerclage. The clinical characteristics of this disease were analyzed and summarized.
Result: The gestational age, extended gestational age, newborn body weight, and newborn Apgar score (1 and 5 minutes) of the group with cervical length ≥ 2.0cm during cerclage were significantly higher than those of the<2.0cm group, while the gestational age during cerclage was significantly lower than that of the<2.0cm group, with statistical significance (P<0.05 for all). There were statistically significant differences (P<0.05) in the cervical length during cerclage, gestational weeks during cerclage, extended gestational weeks, full-term delivery rate, newborn birth weight, 1-minute Apgar score, and 5-minute Apgar score between the prevention group and the emergency group of pregnant women. There was no statistically significant difference in the extended gestational week, delivery gestational week, delivery blood volume, newborn birth weight, fetal survival rate, cesarean section delivery rate, newborn 1-minute Apgar score, and newborn 5-minute Apgar score between the early group (12-16 weeks, 44 cases) and the late group (16-24 weeks, 55 cases).
Conclusion: Pregnant women with a cervical length of ≥ 2.0cm during cerclage have better pregnancy outcomes than those with a cervical length of<2.0cm; Preventive cervical cerclage can improve the rate of full-term delivery and fetal survival; Emergency cerclage is a feasible remedial measure; Transvaginal cervical cerclage at 16-25 weeks of pregnancy can be an effective method to prolong pregnancy time.
Quality of Data in Population-Based Cancer Registry and its Implications for Cancer Control: A Cross-Sectional Study in Northern Tanzania
Authors: Alloyce Julius Pius , Amour Maryam , Mushy Stella Emmanuel , Alloyce Raphael Pius , Sunguya Bruno
Published: March 2024

Background: Cancer remains a significant global health challenge, especially in low-resource settings where limited data obstructs effective control measures. Reliable cancer registries are essential tools for collecting, managing, and analyzing cancer-related data. In Tanzania, as in many other sub-Saharan African countries, the need for accurate and timely cancer data is critical for informed decision-making. This study assesses the data quality of a population-based cancer registry in Tanzania to improve cancer control efforts. Methodology: This study adopted a descriptive cross-sectional study design to analyze 9617 records of cancer patients in population-based cancer registry database (Canreg5) from 2018 to 2022. Data analysis is done using Stata 17.0 and IARC validity check software. The percentage of complete, valid, and timely records was computed and compared with the required target. Comparability analysis compared age-standardized rates (ASR) and percentages of morphologically verified (MV%) against the standards in sub-Saharan Africa.
Results: In the defined period from 2018 to 2022, a total of 9,617 records were included in the final analysis. The study found high data quality indicators: completeness at 94% for mandatory variables, validity at 76%, timeliness at 93%, and a high comparability with cancer data in sub-Saharan Africa at 60%. However, variations were noticed in age-standardized rates (ASR) and morphologically verified cases (MV). For comparability findings, mouth and pharynx cancer had lower age-standardized rates (ASR) for males (5.7) and females (3.4) but high morphological verification rates. Esophageal cancer had significantly higher ASR for males (22.0) and females (6.1), with moderate morphological verification rates. Stomach cancer had lower ASR but higher verification rates. Colon, rectum, and anus cancer had comparable ASR and higher verification rates.
Conclusion: The data quality in the population-based cancer registry at the study site was optimal, with a high proportion of completeness, timeliness, and comparability, but with suboptimal validity of data, particularly for date format, and unlike combinations that highlight continuous monitoring and quality checks. While data quality is vital, challenges like missing and invalid records persist, necessitating reinforced protocols and validation measures.
Mild-iodine-deficiency based on 24-hour urinary iodine excretion leads to significant metabolic changes in pregnant women at early stages of pregnancy
Authors: Fan Lijun , Bu Ye , Liu Zhiyong , Wang Sihan , Chen Shiqi , Zhang Wei , He Yan , Zhang Yashu , Sun Dianjun
Published: March 2024

The effects of mild iodine deficiency during the first and second trimesters on both pregnant women themselves and their offspring exhibited in consistent patterns. In this study, we aimed to address this issue by employing small molecule metabolomics. A total of 98 pregnant women in either the first or second trimester were recruited, with comprehensive data including basic information, 24-hour urine samples and blood samples collected, and subsequent evaluation of birth outcomes for their offspring. The 24-hour urinary iodine excretion (UIE) was detected and used as the dividing criterion to determine the iodine nutrition status of pregnant women. Serum metabolomics assay was performed by Ultra High Performance Liquid Chromatography Orbitrap Exploris Mass Spectrometry (UHPLC-OE-MS) platform. Differential metabolites as the potential iodine deficiency biomarkers were selected by multivariate statistical analysis methods. Association analysis was used to further analyze the relationship between the potential biomarkers and neonatal birth outcomes. As a result, there was no significant difference in maternal thyroid function indicators and neonatal outcomes between mild iodine deficiency and iodine adequate pregnant women. However, the metabolic profile of pregnant women with mild iodine deficiency was significantly disturbed compare to these with iodine adequate. A total of 28 different metabolites were screened, which could be used as the potential biomarkers of iodine deficiency. After adjusted age and pregnancy trimester, the expression of these biomarkers were also changed significantly. Furthermore, these markers were also related to fatty acid biosynthesis, tyrosine metabolism, tryptophan metabolism, arachidonic acid metabolism, and pentose and glucuronate interconversions. In addition, among these markers, 2-(4-Methyl-5-thiazolyl)ethyl octanoate was found to be associated with neonatal TSH, ACar(12:0), (9S,10E,12Z,15Z)-9-Hydroxy-10,12,15-octadecatrienoic acid showed a correlation with body length; whereas (9S,10E,12Z,15Z)-9-Hydroxy-10,12,15-octadecatrienoic acid was linked to body weight. In conclusion, mild iodine deficiency during the first and second trimesters dose not result in overt adverse effects on pregnant women and their offspring. However, at the metabolic level, mild iodine deficiency may disrupt the metabolic profile of pregnant women and impact the development of their offspring.
miRNA-7145-cuedc2 axis controls hematopoiesis through JAK1/STAT3 signaling pathway
Authors: Guo Chunming , Xu Yongsheng , Guo Rui , Huang Tao
Published: March 2024

Hematopoiesis ensures oxygen diffusion, tissue remodeling and immune protection in vertebrate. During embryogenesis, hemangioblasts are the source of all blood cells. Gata1a and pu.1 are co-existed in hemangioblasts when hemangioblasts are not differentiated into blood cells. However, the genes that determine the differentiation of hemangioblasts into myeloid or erythroid have not been fully uncovered. Here we showed that miRNA-7145, a previously unknown function miRNA, was enriched in erythrocytes at definitive wave, but not expressed in myeloid cells. Gain-of-function and loss-of-function analysis of miRNA-7145 revealed that miRNA-7145 functions as a strong inhibitor for myeloid progenitor cells differentiation while commitment for primitive erythropoiesis. Furthermore, we confirmed that cuedc2 is one of miRNA-7145 targeted-genes. Indeed, over-expression or knock-down of cuedc2 partially rescues the phenotype caused by miRNA-7145 gain-of-function or loss-of-function. Meanwhile, Gain-of-function and loss-of-function analysis of cuedc2 showed that cuedc2 is required for myelopoiesis while against to erythropoiesis. Finally, we found that over-expression of zebrafish cuedc2 in 293T cell inhibits JAK1/STAT3 signaling pathway. Collectively, our results uncover a previously unknown miRNA-7145-cuedc2 axis, which regulate hematopoiesis through inhibiting JAK1/STAT3 signaling pathway.
Intrinsically Disordered Regions Steer the Function Coordination of the Traveling Chromatin Modifier During Pol II Elongation
Authors: Li Bing , Pan Yixuan , Liu Meiyang , Ruan Chun , Peng Mengyuan , Hao Min , Zhang Qi , Xue Jingdong , Li Ningzhe , Guan Haipeng , Wang Pei , Hu Mingqian , Li Haitao , Wang Wenjuan , Song Juan , Yao Yanhua , Lao Yimin
Published: March 2024

The Rpd3S histone deacetylase complex suppresses cryptic initiation and maintains genomic integrity by deacetylating transcribed nucleosomes subsequent to RNA Pol II passage. Recent cryo-EM structure analysis of Rpd3S emphasized the significance of two asymmetrical Rco1/Eaf3 dimers in nucleosome binding. However, the mechanism by which Rpd3S interacts with nucleosomal substrates while traveling with elongating Pol II remains elusive. In this study, we elucidate the crucial role of the Rco1 N-terminal Intrinsically Disordered Region (IDR) in regulating Pol II association. Mutations within the K/R cluster of Rco1 IDR significantly impede Rpd3S binding to the C-terminal domain of Rpb1, the largest of subunits of Pol II (CTD), while leaving the overall complex integrity and nucleosome recognition unaffected. Moreover, we identify the Rco1-PHD1 and Eaf3-CHD domains as the minimal module responsible for specific interaction with Ser5-phosphorylated CTD. The Rco1 IDR functions by relieving autoinhibition from its C-terminal regions, thus enabling the binding of PHD1-CHD to CTD. Additionally, we uncover an evolutionarily conserved mechanism governing the distinct roles of the asymmetrical Rco1/Eaf3 dimers in coordinating nucleosome engagement and Pol II binding. These findings offer valuable new perspectives on the functional dynamics of mobile epigenetic modifying complexes that accompany processive machinery.
A study on the correlation between triple network connectivity and rumination of current episode major depressive disorder
Authors: Dong Xiao , Cheng Xiaoman , Qian Huichang , Liu Xiaozheng , Ma Jiehua , Liu Dandan , Liu Jian
Published: March 2024

Background
Rumination of Major Depressive Disorder(MDD) affects the occurrence and development of the disease.Although the triple networks abnormalities have been implicated consistently in MDD and rumination neuropathology, the correlation between MDD with current depressive episode as well as resting-state triple network alterations have not been clearly studied.
Methods
The present study analyzed Regions of Interest(ROI)-toROI connectivity across the default-mode network (DMN), the salience network (SN) as well as the frontal-parietal network (FPN), namely the Triple Network, of MDD patients with the current depressive episode(n = 19, 26 ± 5. 44 years old, 12 females and 7males) and healthy controls (HCs;n = 19, 25 ± 4. 18 years old, 14 females and 5males). FC values and the Rumination Response scale(RRS) scores were investigated by correlation analysis.
Results
Comparing with HCs, hyperconnectivity in MDD was appeared between the DMN and the SN. Pearson correlation analysis showed significantly positive and moderate relation between FC values and scores of RRS and its sub-scales.
Conclusions
Rumination in current episode MDD patients is related with FC between DMN and SN, which connects two large-scale functions networks involved numerous functions such as self-reference,attention and else. This study may provide new insights into the neural mechanisms of MDD and rumination and reflect biomarkers of MDD with current depressive episode.
Emotio-Intelligent: A New Adaptive Approach for Intelligent Evacuation in Crisis Situations.
Authors: Farhani Moncef , Kanzari Dalel
Published: March 2024

Addressing the critical challenge of evacuation, especially in crisis situations where uncontrollable emotions can significantly impact decision-making, is of paramount importance. In this article, the Emotional Intelligent Model is presented, a new approach that seamlessly integrates dynamic emotion recognition with an adapted intelligent evacuation strategy for crisis scenarios. Our methodology harnesses a combination of convolutional neural networks (CNN) for dynamic emotion sensing and long-term memory recurrent neural networks (LSTM) to provide decision support during evacuation. This paper provides an in-depth exploration of our system's architecture, encompassing the dynamic emotion recognition and personality profiling methods, as well as the adaptive evacuation strategy. During the experimental and validation phases, the MESA simulation platform was used. The results achieved confirm the effectiveness of the integrated emotional approach, which contributes to safer and smarter evacuation procedures in crisis situations.
Acoustical Properties of the New Sandwich Structures for Aircraft Cabin Interiors with Integrated Vacuum Insulation
Authors: Latsuzbaya V. , Middendorf P. , Völkle D. , Weber C.
Published: March 2024

The modern passenger aircrafts are required to meet high standards of comfort for passengers, whom spend a large amount of time in the cabin during the flight. The climate and noise inside the aircraft cabin are some of the important comfort parameters. In the search for new insulation materials, Vacuum Insulation Panels (VIP) were chosen due to their very low thermal conductivity. As part of the integration of the VIPs into the structure of the interior panels, it was found that the thermal conductivity of the total sandwich structure of the interior is 3–6 times less than the values of the conventional structures, thereby causing great interest in the usage of these materials for the aircraft cabin. This article focuses on studying the acoustic properties of the new structures with integrated vacuum insulation. As part of this analysis, sound transmission loss tests were carried out, which showed that the novel interior structures have promising acoustical properties.
Fine mapping and candidate gene analysis of Rf21(t) for the fertility restoration of Chinsurah Boro II-type cytoplasmic male sterile Oryza sativa (ssp. japonica) lines
Authors: Zhang Honggen , Xu Zuopeng , Wang Chen , Fan Liying , Li Meng , Huang Benxi , Du Yuanyue , Zhao Xiangqiang , Liu Qiaoquan , Tang Shuzhu
Published: March 2024

The combination of Chinsurah Boro II (BT)-type cytoplasmic male sterility (CMS) and Rf1, the main fertility restorer gene (Rf) for CMS-BT, has been extensively utilized for the production of three-line commercial japonica hybrid seeds. The identification of new Rf genes holds significance for the breeding BT-type restorer lines, aiming to enhance the heterosis level of BT-type japonica hybrids. In this present study, ‘02428’, a wide-compatibility japonica variety, was observed to partially restore fertility to BT-type CMS lines. Genetic analysis revealed that ‘02428’ carries a dominant Rf gene, Rf21(t), responsible for the fertility restoration of BT-type CMS lines. Leveraging BSA resequencing technology and molecular markers, the Rf21(t) locus was identified, and localized within a candidate interval of 6-12.5Mb on chromosome 2. Using the iso-cytoplasmic restorer populations, Rf21(t) was ultimately mapped to an interval of approximately 77 kb, encompassing 12 predicted genes, including LOC_Os02g17360, encoding a PPR domain-containing protein and LOC_Os02g17380 (Rf2), a cloned Rf for Lead rice-type CMS. Comparative sequence analysis, gene expression profiling, and gene knockout experiments confirmed LOC_Os02g17360 and LOC_Os02g17380 as the most likely candidates of Rf21(t). Furthermore, Rf21(t) showed the dosage effect on the fertility restoration of BT-type CMS lines. This newly identified Rf21(t) represents a valuable genetic resource for the breeding of BT-type japonica restorer lines. Our findings offer practical insights for breeders interested in advancing BT-type japonica hybrid development.
Study protocol for the Evaluation of the Movember and Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride Veterans and First Responders Mental Health Grant Program
Authors: Lukersmith Sue , Salvador-Carulla Luis , Woods Cindy , Niyonsenga Theo , Gutierrez-Colosia Mencia R. , Mohanty Itismita , Garcia-Alonso Carlos R. , Diaz-Milanes Diego , Perez Jose A. Salinas. , Davey Rachel , Aryani Amir
Published: March 2024

Background
In the course of their work, first responders (police, firefighters, paramedics/ambulance personnel, emergency services), and military personnel are regularly exposed to challenging events involving life-threatening situations, serious injury and fatalities. Cumulative exposure to critical incidents and often life-threatening events leads to a significant risk for Veterans and First Responders (VFRs) developing mental ill health and disorders. Two philanthropic organisations, Movember and Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride, funded 15 organisations to conduct 25 preventative and early intervention Projects through a Grant Program, across seven countries (2021 – 2024). The Projects aim to improve the mental health and wellbeing of VFRs, their families/significant others. This paper describes the methods to be used for the external evaluation of the Projects and Grant Program. The evaluation aims to: identify which Projects and their strategies are effective and have a positive impact on VFRs and their families, provide value for money; and assess the return on investment for the Grant Program funders.
Methods
The evaluation will take an ecosystem real-world approach, which recognises the context and manages the complexities involved. The evaluation will use multi-step mixed methods and novel approaches across three perspectives: the Projects; comparisons across Projects; and the grant program overall. Embedded in the evaluation design are methods, knowledge sharing and organisational learning activities for all stakeholders during and beyond the evaluation. Data will be collected by the Projects (de-identified for evaluators) and the evaluation team on input, throughputs, and output indicators. The analysis tools include: the Global Impact Analytics Framework, statistical analysis for sustained improvements for individuals and organisational outcomes, performance evaluation using an efficient decision support approach, social return on investment or similar cost analysis and return on investment for the overall grant program, use of a Co-op platform which visually links Projects’ connected data to other open source information to gain new insights, and finally the assessment of the project’s use of a gendered lens.
Discussion
The complexity and heterogeneity of Projects implemented in the real world presents significant evaluation challenges and limitations. However, the formative and summative learning gained through the evaluation will be highly relevant to all stakeholders involved.
Study Registration: The impact analysis of the Movember Veterans and First Responders Grant Program was registered on the Open Science Framework (OSF) Registration doi.org/10.17605/OSF.IOVNK89
The Comprehensive In Vitro Propagation and Genetic Homogeneity Analysis of Cryptocoryne crispatula var. yunnanensis: Addressing the Conservation Concerns for an Endangered Species in China and the Mekong Basin
Authors: Sakulsathaporn Arpakorn , Mapanao Ratchaneegorn
Published: March 2024

This study focused on the propagation of the endangered aquatic plant species Cryptocoryne crispatula var. yunnanensis, threatened by hydropower dam construction in Thailand and classified as endangered in China. The objective was to propagate the species using shoot explants. A sterilization method with a 45.45% success rate involved treating shoots with 0.01% HgCl2 for 90 minutes and 5% commercial bleach (6% NaOCl) for 20 minutes. The study investigated the effect of Murashige and Skoog (MS) medium, supplemented with 0.5 mg/L NAA and 1-4 mg/L cytokinins (BA, kinetin, and TDZ), on shoot initiation and proliferation. TDZ was found to be more effective than BA and kinetin in enhancing shoot growth. The optimal shoot induction, averaging 7.14 shoots per explant, occurred in MS medium with 0.5 mg/L NAA and 3 mg/L TDZ. A medium of 0.5 mg/L NAA and 1 mg/L TDZ significantly increased shoot proliferation, yielding an average of 23.75 shoots per explant. The most successful ex vitro rooting and acclimatization method involved 1X vitamin stock MS medium with 0.5 mg/L IBA, followed by transfer to plastic pots with a 1:1 sand and vermiculite mix, achieving a 73.33% survival rate and an average of 6.31 roots per explant. Genetic uniformity and stability of the propagated clones were verified using ISSR markers. This protocol enhances the conservation efforts for C. crispatulavar. yunnanensis by supporting its multiplication and preservation in synthetic habitats.
Addressing Concerns of Access and Distribution of Health Workforce: A Discrete Choice Experiment to Develop Rural Attraction and Retention Strategies in Southwestern Ethiopia.
Authors: Hilo Abdela Alte
Published: March 2024

Background: There exists a shortage of healthcare workers in Ethiopia, with an uneven distribution between urban and remote areas. To formulate effective policy intervention aimed at attracting and retaining health workers in remote regions, this study examines the stated preferences of health workers when selecting health jobs.
Methods: A Discrete Choice Experiment was conducted with health workers in the Aari and South Omo Zone of the South Ethiopia region from September to November 2022 to gather insights into their job preferences. After conducting literature review, focus group discussions and in-depth interviews salary, education, housing, location, timeliness of payment, medicine and equipment, management culture, and infrastructure attributes included in the study. To assess the relative importance of these job attributes and account for heterogeneity in preferences and scales, I used a mixed logit model with full correlation between utility coefficients. I conducted willingness to pay analysis using delta method and probability of job uptake for single incentive and combination of incentives based on results from the mixed logit model.
Results: All eight attributes were statistically significant with the expected signs and demonstrated the existence of preference heterogeneity. Education, salary, and housing were of most concern to health workers when deciding their future workplace. Health workers are willing to trade a significant portion of their salary for improvements in other aspects of the job. Sub-group analysis showed that health workers with no rural background were willing to pay more to work at the zone center than health workers who lived in rural area for more than a year. The probability to work in rural area increases by 61% if education is offered to health workers after one year of service. Cost-effectiveness analysis revealed that raising salary is the most cost-effective incentive to attract and retain health workers. However, packages of incentives are always preferred over single incentive.
Conclusion: Health workers express willingness to relocate to or continue serving in rural and remote areas, contingent upon improved working conditions Both monetary and non-monetary policy interventions should be considered by policymakers to attract and retain health workers to distant locations of southwestern Ethiopia.
Preoperative albumin-to-fibrinogen ratio is a prognostic factor for patients with early non-small cell lung cancer
Authors: Chi Chuanzhen , Xu Yihan , Li Qi , Li Li , Wang Yuchao , Wang Yan , Xu Chunhua
Published: March 2024

Background
Previous studies have shown that albumin-to-fibrinogen ratio (AFR) is a novel prognostic biomarker in various diseases. In this study, we investigated the correlation between preoperative AFR and clinical outcomes in patients with early non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).
Methods
A total of 212 stage I NSCLC patients who underwent surgical resection were enrolled in this study. Risk factors for recurrence-free survival (RFS) and overall survival (OS) was evaluated by univariate and multivariate Cox proportional regression analyses. The association between OS, RFS and AFR was assessed by the Kaplan–Meier method using log-rank test.
Results
The AFR was significantly associated with tumor stage. Preoperative AFR was an effective predictor for OS in NSCLC patients with a cut-off value of 10.36 and an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.785 (P < 0.001). The univariate and multivariate Cox analyses indicated that AFR was an independent prognostic factor for both OS and RFS (P < 0.05). Kaplan–Meier analysis confirmed that patients with high AFR levels showed significantly higher RFS (P = 0.016) and OS (P = 0.041) than those with low AFR levels.
Conclusions
This study indicated that elevated preoperative AFR might be an independent prognostic factor for early NSCLC patients.
Alanine mutation of the targeting subunit of the myosin phosphatase, MYPT1 at threonine 696 reduces cGMP-reactivity of murine femoral arteries
Authors: Lubomirov Lubomir T. , Weber Greta , Metzler Doris , Bust Maria , Korotkova Tatyana , Hescheler Jürgen , Pfitzer Gabriele , Grisk Olaf
Published: March 2024

The femoral artery (FA) is the largest vessel of the hind limb circulation whose proper tone-regulation ensures adequate blood supply of muscle tissue. We investigated whether alanine mutation of the targeting subunit of myosin-light-chain-phosphatase (MLCP), MYPT1 at threonine696 (MYPT1-T696A/+) affects reactivity of young and old FAs (y-FAs and o-FAs) to activation of nitric-oxide/soluble-guanylate-cyclase/protein-kinase-G cascade (NO/sGC/PKG). Contractile responses of the vessels were measured by wire myography. Phosphorylation of the regulatory-light-chain of myosin at serine19 (MLC20-S19), MLCP-inhibitory subunit, MYPT1-T696, the PKG-sensitive site of MYPT1, S668 (MYPT1-S668) as well as the regulatory phosphorylation eNOS at T1177 (eNOS-T1177) were determined in arterial homogenates by western blot. In FAs from all ages and genetic groups, MYPT1-T696-mutation did not alter vascular diameter and the reactivity to the thromboxaneA2-analogue U46619 and the RhoA-associated kinase inhibitor Y27632. By contrast, the mutation attenuated the relaxing effect of exogenous NO (DEA-NONOate) in y-FAs and the effect of a direct sGC-activation by cinaciguat in both age groups. MYPT1-T696-mutation also attenuated acetylcholine induced relaxation, but only in o-FAs. Accordingly, only in old MYPT-T696A/+-FAs alanine mutation diminished acetylcholine effect on MLC20-S19- and MYPT1-T696. Interestingly, neither regulatory eNOS-T1177 phosphorylation nor MYPT1-S668 were altered by MYPT1-T696 mutation or aging. These findings suggest that alanine mutation of MYPT1-T696 diminishes the ability of NO/cGMP/PKG-system to relax FAs in old age. Our data support the view that well balanced phosphorylation of MYPT1 and in particular at the T696-residue of the protein is essential for the proper vascular reactivity, especially in elderly.
Updated Results of 3,050 Non-melanoma Skin Cancer (NMSC) Lesions in 1725 Patients Treated with High Resolution Dermal Ultrasound-Guided Superficial Radiotherapy, A Multi-institutional Study
Authors: Moloney Mairead , Kaczmarski Peter , Zheng Songzhu , Malik Ariana , Ladd Daniel , Serure Donna , Harris Peyton M. , Yu Lio
Published: March 2024

Background: Image-guided superficial radiation therapy (IGSRT) using a high resolution dermal ultrasound, is becoming an attractive non-surgical curative treatment option for nonmelanoma skin cancer (NMSC). We previously reported IGSRT treatment results from a multi-institutional study of 1616 patients with 2917 NMSC lesions (Yu et al. Oncol Ther 2021, https://doi.org/10.1007/s40487-021-00138-4) showing excellent local control (LC) of 99.3% with mean follow-up of 69.8 weeks (16.06 months).
Methods: This abstract analyzes an additional 93 patients with 133 lesions, updates previous findings with longer follow-up, using Kaplan-Meier statistics, and performs subgroup analysis. A total of 1709 patients with 3,050 Stage 0, I, and II NMSC lesions treated from 2017 to 2020 were retrospectively analyzed.
Results: Lesions received a median of 20 fractions of 50, 70, or 100 kilovoltage(kV) IGSRT using image guidance. Average follow-up was 25.06 months (108.9 weeks) with a maximum follow up of 65.6 months (285.0 weeks) for the entire cohort. 68 patients expired from unrelated causes with no-evidence of disease (NED) at last follow-up prior to death, thus Disease-Free-Survival (DFS) was 100%. Overall, 3,027 of 3,050 lesions achieved an absolute LC of 99.2%. Overall absolute LC for BCC, SCC, and SCCis was 99.0%, 99.2%, and 99.8%, respectively. No additional late complications were found to date as of January 2022.
Discussion: These updated results demonstrate that IGSRT continues to achieve a high level of LC with low complication rates. IGSRT should be considered an attractive first-line option for the non-surgical treatment of NMSC.
Effect of conventional cigarette smoking and recent heated tobacco products on CAD/CAM restorative materials
Authors: Makkeyah Fatma , Sergany Omar El , Shamel Mohamed , Ankily Mahmoud Al
Published: March 2024

Objective: To determine the effects of conventional cigarette smoking (CS) and recent heated tobacco products (HTPs) on the surface roughness and color stability of different indirect restorative materials.
Methods: One hundred disc-shaped samples were constructed of three different restorative CAD/CAM materials: lithium disilicate glass-ceramic (IPS e.max CAD; Ivoclar Vivadent, Liechtenstein), zirconia (BruxZir® Zirconia, Glidewell, USA) and polyetheretherketone (BioHPP® bredent GmbH, Germany). Of the IPS e.max CAD and the Bruxzir samples, 20 samples were glazed, and 20 samples were polished, while the BioHPP samples were all polished according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Fifty samples were subjected to conventional cigarette smoking (LM, Philip Morris International Inc., Egypt), and fifty samples were exposed to heated tobacco product smoking (Heets, Russet selection, Philip Morris International Inc., Italy). Six hundred cigarettes/heets representing 30 days of medium smoking behavior (20 cigarettes/day) were used. Before and after exposure to smoke, the surface roughness of all the samples was measured using JITAI8101 surface roughness tester (Beijing Jitai Tech Detection Device Co., Ltd, China, and the color parameters were assessed using VITA Easyshade Advance 4.01 (VITA shade, VITA made, VITA).
The surface topography was evaluated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and analyzed using energy-dispersive X-ray (EDX) spectroscopy to determine changes in the surface chemical composition.
Results: Both types of smoking caused significant increases in the surface roughness of all the samples. Compared with HTP, conventional cigarette smoking induced significantly greater changes in the surface roughness of polished surfaces. Compared with HTP, conventional cigarette smoking caused a significantly greater change in color, and zirconia had the greatest effect on color change, while peek had the least effect.
Conclusion: Exposure to different types of smoking induce changes in the surface topography and color of different esthetic restorative materials. Compared with HTP, conventional cigarette smoke has a greater effect on the surface roughness and color stability of esthetic restorative materials. The glazed surfaces showed less change in surface topography than did the polished surfaces. Zirconia showed better color stability when compared to peek.
Proposing a Computational Modeling Framework for Generating Masonry Wall Units, Enhancing the Information Within a BIM
Authors: McClymonds Austin D. , Asadi Somayeh , Leicht Robert M.
Published: March 2024

In recent decades, the construction industry has undergone a technological shift incorporating innovative technologies, such as robotics. However, information requirements must be met to integrate robotics further. Currently, building information models (BIM) contain substantial project information that can be leveraged for robots to create construction tasks, but for some building systems, the level of development (LOD) is inadequate to support these new requirements. Therefore, this study proposes a framework to increase the LOD of building systems by considering location information (X, Y, Z), orientation, material type, and component I.D. The computational modeler, Dynamo, is leveraged to increase the model’s LOD, extract information, and facilitate robotic task execution in the future. A case study is presented for multiple masonry room configurations developed in Autodesk Revit, where masonry units are generated and placed into design locations based on the geometry of the wall system. The case study used concrete masonry units (CMU) and standard brick. The number of partial-sized and full-sized blocks for each configuration was recorded, along with the computational time required to generate the units. It was observed that room configurations with more openings had longer computational times when compared to rooms constructed from the same material. After running the script, the model is reviewed to ensure accuracy and prevent overlaps or gaps in the model. The workflow provides insight into the methods used to interpret model geometry and extract information.
Clinical and Prognostic Implications of Electrocardiography and Holter Monitoring Findings in Patients with Light chain Cardiac Amyloidosis
Authors: Fingrova Zdenka , Havranek Stepan , Kuchynka Petr , Habasko Jan , Linhart Ales , Palecek Tomas
Published: March 2024

Background: Cardiac involvement in light chain amyloidosis (AL-CA) represents an infiltrative heart disease. The aim of the study was to recognize differences between patients suffering from light chain amyloidosis with and without cardiac involvement in 12-lead electrocardiography (ECG) and 24-hour Holter ECG monitoring.
Methods: We prospectively analyzed clinical profile, echocardiographic pattern, ECG and 24hr Holter monitoring findings in 39 (median 66 [IQR 62;71] years, 62% males) consecutive patients with AL amyloidosis.
Results: Out of all patients, AL-CA was confirmed in 26 (67%) subjects. All patients with AL-CA manifested at least one pathology on 12-lead ECG, which contrasted with a low prevalence of abnormal ECG findings in patients without cardiac involvement (54%), p < 0.001. Abnormal Holter ECG findings were documented in 77% and 62% of patients with and without AL-CA. During 19 (7; 59) months of follow-up, 19 (73%) patients with AL-CA died. The mortality rate was significantly lower in patients with QRS < 100ms and QTc < 450ms (both p < 0.05), respectively. The absence of any pathology on 12-lead ECG had a negative predictive value of 100% for the presence of AL-CA.
Conclusion: Standard 12-lead ECG seems to be a method with a relevant negative predictive value for the exclusion of AL-CA. The duration of QRS as well as QTc intervals seem to be a marker of early mortality of patients with AL-CA.
Comparative Analysis of Path Following Algorithms for Small Fixed Wing Surveying UAVs
Authors: kapeel ebrahim , Kamel Ahmed M. , Safwat Ehab
Published: March 2024

Surveying using UAVs is one of the recent applications that have widely spread in recent decades. UAV Mapping and surveying are powerful and intellegent technique for land surveying and have a privilege over classical methods as its more faster, reliable, efficient, more accurate, and more cost efficient. One of the critical challenges in these types of UAVs’ autopilot design is the guidance (path following) technique which should be accurately designed to ensure precise tracking of the desired waypoints. Furthermore, there is a crucial need to increase the final accuracy of the assigned fixed or maneuvering points. In this research, several path following techniques based on geometric relations is designed, tested, and verified with the UAV model. In addition, a comparative analysis between these different algorithms is analyzed to choose the optimum technique which is to be implemented with the flight controller. Besides, the simulation is verified with different percentages of wind disturbance and aero dynamics coefficients up to 60% uncertainitiy. Finally, Simulation results show the superiority of the Non-Linear Guidance Law (NLGL) as the optimum path following.
ECTR-YOLOv5:Pedestrian detection in dense scenes based on improved YOLOv5
Authors: wu yiheng , li laichun , liu taihui , meng wei , wu chenwei
Published: March 2024

Pedestrian detection technology has reached a relatively mature level in sparse environments. However, accurate pedestrian detection in packed scenes still presents challenges owing to factors such as occlusion, high crowd density, and scale changes. This study proposes a pedestrian detection algorithm for dense scenes based on the YOLOv5 model and several key modifications have been introduced to enhance performance, First, the backbone network incorporates the new attention mechanism network module. This addition improves pedestrian detection accuracy across multi-scale changes by effectively integrating both channel and spatial information. Second, the connection of the P2 layer is implemented to enhance the capture of features at different scales. This is particularly beneficial in reducing the missed detection rate of distant pedestrians. Third, using a Weighted Bidirectional Feature Pyramid Network neck network not only reduces model complexity in neck networks but also efficiently and quickly achieves multi-scale fusion. Finally, the prediction network is augmented with the adaptive spatial feature fusion block (ASFF). This integration enhances multi-scale feature maps, accommodating spatial variation in prediction uncertainty. Experimental results demonstrate that the optimized YOLOv5(ECTR-YOLOv5) achieves performance improvements across both the WiderPerson and CrowdHuman datasets. These enhancements showcase excellent performance and robustness under varying environmental conditions, rendering the algorithm more suitable for real-time target detection applications. In summary, the proposed modifications to the YOLOv5 model, as embodied in ECTR-YOLOv5, represent a significant advancement in addressing the challenges of accurate pedestrian detection in packed scenes. The algorithm's improved performance and robustness make it well-suited for deployment in real-world scenarios where detection is in densely populated environments.
Traumatic abdominal wall hernia as a component of the seatbelt syndrome: Complete abdominal wall muscles transection treated with two-stage surgery and retrospective review in a first-level hospital.
Authors: Gómez-Torres Irene , Gamón-Giner Rosa Laura , Menor-Duran Pedro Daniel , Escrig Marta Queralt , Benedetti Génesis Jara , Ferrara Eduardo Alcobilla
Published: March 2024

Background Seat belt syndrome (SBS) is a rare condition described as injuries sustained due to thoracic, abdominal, and pelvic compression in the context of traffic accidents. These injuries can range from minor skin abrasions to large lesions of internal organs and spinal cord involvement. Traumatic abdominal wall hernias (TAWH) are one of the injuries that can be associated with this condition.Material and Methods We present a review of our case series and the description of a unique case of a 21-year-old male with a high severity injury, with complete transection of all abdominal wall musculature secondary to SBS, with associated visceral injury. Emergency surgery required intestinal and sigmoid colon resection, as well as repair of the cava vein. After a long recovery period, a second-stage surgery was planned for abdominal wall reconstruction, with prehabilitation using botulinum toxin and pneumoperitoneum, as well as surgical planning with a CT scan with 3D reconstruction of the abdominal wall defect.Results A retrospective review was conducted of patients with SBS, of whom only 6 presented with TAWH. Five out of the 6 cases had associated intrabdominal visceral injuries, with emergency surgical treatment required. In the case of complete transection of the abdominal wall, a second surgery was required for scheduled abdominal wall reconstruction, involving transversus abdominis release and placement of double mesh.Discussion The therapeutic approach to traumatic abdominal wall injuries should be individualized to each patient, with a focus on addressing vital injuries first and considering abdominal wall reconstruction surgery at a subsequent stage. Utilizing CT scan with 3D reconstruction can serve as a valuable tool for preoperative planning in cases involving significant abdominal wall defects.
The safety and utility of the semi-sitting position for clipping of posterior circulation aneurysms
Authors: Al-Afif Shadi , Lang Josef M. , Abdulbaki Arif , Palmaers Thomas , Scheinichen Dirk , Abu-Fares Omar , Hermann Elvis J. , Krauss Joachim K.
Published: March 2024

Introduction: The semi-sitting position offers several advantages for the surgical treatment of different pathologies in the posterior cranial fossa. However, there is only limited data regarding its safety and utility for the surgical clipping of aneurysms in the posterior cerebral circulation.
Materials and Methods: We conducted a retrospective study of 17 patients with posterior cerebral circulation aneurysms who underwent surgical clipping in the semi-sitting position at the Department over a 10-year period.
Results: The mean age at surgery was 62 years (range, 31 to 75). Fourteen patients were admitted with subarachnoid hemorrhage and 3 patients had incidental aneurysmas. Fifteen patients had PICA aneurysms, and two had aneurysms of the vertebral artery and the superior cerebellar artery, respectively. The median diameter of the aneurysms was 5 mm (range 3-17 mm). Intraoperative venous air embolism (VAE) occurred in 4 patients, without affecting the surgical or clinical course. VAE was associated with a mild decrease of EtCO2 levels in 3 patients and in 2 patients a decrease of blood pressure occurred which was managed effectively. Surgical procedures proceeded as planned in all instances. There were no complications secondary to VAE. Two patients died secondary to respiratory problems (not related to VAE), and one patient was lost to follow-up. Eleven of fourteen patients were partially or completely independent (Barthel index between 60 and 100) at a median follow-up duration of 13.5 months (range, 3-103 months).
Conclusion: The semi-sitting position is a safe and effective for the surgical clipping of aneurysms in the posterior cerebral circulation experienced hands. The incidence of VAE is comparable to that seen in tumor surgery. However, it is crucial for the surgical and anesthesiological team to be familiar with potential complications and to react immediately upon the occurance of VAE.
Analysis of prognostic factors and construction of prognostic models for breast invasive lobular carcinoma
Authors: Cheng Lin , Wang Jianlin , Tang Liming
Published: March 2024

Purpose: Invasive lobular carcinoma (ILC) and invasive ductal carcinoma (IDC) account for most breast cancers. However, there is ongoing controversy regarding the differences in overall survival (OS) between ILC and IDC. The aim of this study was to compare survival between IDC and ILC, identify prognostic factors for ILC patients and to construct a nomogram for predicting the OS rates.
Methods: As a retrospective cohort analysis, this study utilized data from the Surveillance, Epidemiology and End Results (SEER) Cancer Database. Patients diagnosed with ILC and IDC between 2000 and 2019 were chosen. To minimize baseline differences in clinicopathological characteristics and survival outcomes, we used a propensity score matching (PSM) method. The data from the multivariate Cox regression analyses were used to construct apredictive nomogram for OS at 1, 3 and 5 years, incorporating all independent prognostic factors.
Results: Following the PSM procedure, patients with ILC exhibited a better prognosis compared to those with IDC. TNM stage, age>70, radiotherapy, surgery, estrogen receptor (ER), progesterone receptor (PR)and HR-/HER2+ subtype were independent factors for OS in ILC patients. Surgery and radiotherapy were found in this study to effectively reduce the risk of death while chemotherapy did not demonstrate the same benefit.
Conclusions: The nomogram displayed strong predictive performance and can support clinicians to evaluate the prognosis of ILC in decision-making and patient counseling.
The Role of Endothelial Frequency in the cerebral blood flow control during Neonatal Asphyxia: a retrospective longitudinal study
Authors: Agudelo-Perez Sergio , Troncoso-Moreno Gloria , Muños-Diaz Cristian , Botero-Machado Juan David , Botero-Rosas Daniel Alfonso , Tuta-Quintero Eduardo
Published: March 2024

Background: Cerebral blood flow alterations can be discerned through the analysis of endothelial frequencies. The hypothesis posits that there exists a disparity in endothelial activity between asphyxiated newborns with and without neuronal lesions.
Methods. A retrospective longitudinal study was carried out in which newborns receiving hypothermia treatment for moderate and severe asphyxia participated, segmented into two groups according to the presence or absence of neuronal damage. The study sought to investigate the temporal endothelial involvement in regulating cerebral blood flow control in both groups. Regional cerebral oxygen saturation (rScO2) was measured using near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS), and the temporal series were subsequently transformed into the frequency domain.
Results. A total of 88 patients were included in the study. Of these, 53% (47/88) were male, and 33% (29/88) had brain lesions detected by magnetic resonance imaging. 86% (76/88) had a gestational age, according to the Ballard scale, greater than 37 weeks, while 81% (71/88) had a birth weight greater than 2500 grams. The Cohen's d effect size was determined to assess the magnitude of the impact between the means of both groups. The results of Cohen's d indicated that there was a small effect size in endothelial energy between the groups based on the results of the cerebral magnetic resonance imaging, with a Cohen's d value for Day 2 = 0.2351 and for Day 3 = 0.2325.
Conclusion: Relationship between neuronal damage and endothelial function, providing a perspective on the underlying control mechanism endothelial participating in the cerebral blood flow regulation.