bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
IMPROVEMENT OF THE MATHEMATICAL DESCRIPTION OF THERMOPHYSICAL PROPERTIES OF ALTERNATIVE MOTOR FUELS BASED ON THE MODIFIED THERMODYNAMIC THEORY OF DISTURBANCE
Authors: Kondratenko O. M. , Umerenkova K. R. , Lievtierov A. M. , Strokov O. P. , Koloskov V. Yu
Published: September 2023

In the study, the purpose of which was to improve the mathematical apparatus based on the modified thermodynamic perturbation theory for describing the thermophysical characteristics of alternative motor fuels with a spherical configuration of interacting structural elements and an arbitrary aggregate state, the formal scheme of the modified perturbation theory was consistently constructed, the main characteristics of the model system were described, the parameters of the interaction potentials of the alternative fuel components were described, the thermophysical properties of the alternative fuel components were obtained by calculation, the thermodynamic properties of the alternative fuel components were calculated, the results of the calculation of the thermodynamic characteristics of the alternative fuel were analyzed and illustrated in the form of isotherm of phase equilibrium diagrams and data tables. The object of the study is the thermophysical characteristics of traditional, alternative and mixed motor fuels in a liquid or gaseous aggregate state. The subject of the study is a mathematical apparatus based on the modified thermodynamic perturbation theory for describing the thermophysical characteristics of motor fuels. The scientific novelty of the study results lies in the fact that a mathematical apparatus based on a modified perturbation theory has been improved for a comprehensive description of all thermophysical characteristics of motor fuels of any genesis, i.e. traditional, alternative and mixed, which are in both liquid and gaseous aggregate states in terms of reducing the calculation time and reducing the error of obtaining thermophysical characteristics in comparison with reference and experimental data. The practical significance of the research results is that the improved mathematical apparatus is marketable for providing accurate information to the composition of the initial data set in research on the production, storage, transportation, distribution, use of motor fuels of any genesis, which are in different states, as well as forecasting the course and results of processes of atmospheric pollution by gaseous products of complete and incomplete combustion of fuel components in combustion chambers of various types of heat engines.
CONCEPTUAL FOUNDATIONS OF DISCRETE-CONTINUOUS STRENGTHENING OF ENGINE AND TURBO-EXPANDER COMPONENTS
Authors: Tkachuk M. M. , Grabovskiy A. , Tkachuk M. А. , Marchenko А. , Kravchenko S.
Published: September 2023

The article focuses on design and technological measures aimed at ensuring improved technological characteristics of engines and turboexpander units. In particular, an improved concept of the technology of discrete-continuous strengthening of structural elements has been developed. This concept combines design and technological measures in a single technical solution. This expanded parameter space ensures greater efficiency of the final synthesised solution. For example, by analysing the stress-strain state of a representative fragment of contacting structural parts, the regularities of the influence of design and technological parameters on strength characteristics are determined: sets of parameters that provide increased strength of contacting parts and their durability are substantiated. Friction in the mating of parts is also reduced. In addition, the efficiency of the mechanism, which includes the contacting parts subjected to hardening, increases. The result is an increase in the technological characteristics of engines, turbo-expander units and other machines whose parts are subjected to discrete-continuous hardening. In general, the developed concept is aimed at a major enhancement of the service characteristics of structural elements. This is stated in the objective functions. These objective functions are minimized or maximized in the extended parametric space. A parametric model of the stress-strain state of a fragment of discrete-continuous reinforced bodies is created. This model makes it possible to study the impact of project and technological parameters and tribomechanical properties of contacting bodies. By purposefully varying the properties of materials, the shape and size of the zones of discrete and continuous strengthening, it is possible to achieve increased tribomechanical characteristics of a pair of contacting bodies.
Распространение вариантов вируса SARS-COV-2, вызывающих интерес (VOI) и субвариантов Omicron, находящихся под наблюдением (VUM), на основе количества их геномов, депонированных в базу данных GISAID за неделю с 16 по 22 сентября 2023 г.
Authors: Зимирова Анастасия , Краснов Ярослав , Чумачкова Елена , Дмитриева Людмила , Осина Наталья , Карнаухов Игорь , Щербакова Светлана , Кутырев Владимир
Published: September 2023

В обзоре представлена информация по циркулирующим в настоящее время вариантам вируса SARS-COV-2 вызывающих интерес (VOI) и субвариантов Omicron, находящихся под наблюдением (VUM), геномные последовательности которых размещены в международной базе данных GISAID за неделю с 16.09.2023 г. по 22.09.2023 г.
Long-term survival outcomes of drug-eluting bead transarterial chemoembolization in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma in Vietnam
Authors: Binh Mai Thanh , Thai Nguyen Van , Giang Dinh Truong , Manh Nguyen Van , Tuyet Tran Thi Anh , Tuan Nguyen Anh , Trang Nguyen Thi Huyen , Thinh Nguyen Tien , Bang Mai Hong
Published: September 2023

Aim
To evaluate the efficacy of drug-eluting bead transarterial chemoembolization (DEB-TACE) and determined prognostic factors affecting patients with HCC.
Methods
A total of 477 Vietnamese patients diagnosed with HCC underwent DEB-TACE. Patient survival was assessed using the Kaplan–Meier method, and prognostic factors affecting survival were assessed using log-rank tests and Cox proportional hazards regression.
Results
Among the 477 patients (437 males, mean age 61.1 ± 11.7 years) who underwent DEB-TACE, the median clinical follow-up was 25.3 (1–63) months. Treated response according to the Modified RECIST in patients followed up beyond 6 months included a complete response (CR) in 41 patients (8.7%), partial response (PR) in 352 (74.9%), stable disease (SD) and progressive disease (PD) in 77 (16.1%). The median overall survival (OS) was 53 ± 1.1 months. Factors associated with longer OS included ECOG ≤ 1, Child-Pugh A, BCLC stage A/B, ALBI grade I, and tumor response (CR/PR). In multivariate analysis, Child-Pugh A and objective tumor response (CR/PR) were predictors of longer OS.
Conclusion
DEB-TACE was an effective treatment for HCC. Child-Pugh A before TACE and tumor response (CR/PR) were positive prognostic factors.
DNA Images of Codes Over F4t [u]/
Authors: Sezer Tugce , Yaraneri Ergün
Published: September 2023

The aim of this paper is to study DNA codes using some Gray images of codes over the chain rings S = F4t [u] and R = F4[v]⁄. The special cases t=1 and k=2,3 were studied before. We construct some nice Gray maps from R, S to DNA codewords, whose images satisfy complement and reversibility properties. Studying the general case allows us to construct codes with better parameters. Subsequently, we concentrate on codes over arbitrary commutative rings and cyclic codes over R and obtain some necessary and sufficient conditions equal to the common constraints on DNA codes, like reversibility. Moreover, a variety of sample codes over multiple rings are presented.
MSC Classification: 11T71 , 94B05 , 94B15
Management of Mexican bean beetle, Zabrotes subfasciatus (Boheman) (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae), with botanical powders and oils in common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.)
Authors: Damena Kalkidan , Goftishu Muluken , Fite Tarekegn
Published: September 2023

Common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) is an essential crop for food security and nutrition, mainly for Sub-Saharan African smallholder farmers. However, the production and productivity of common bean is mainly constrained by Mexican bean beetles, Zabrotes subfasciatus (Boheman). Thus, the objectives of this study were to evaluate the effectiveness of plant seed powders of neem, Hochst and wild marigold, leaf powders of sweet fennel and broad-leaved croton, plant essential oils of neem and Hochst and African cabbage edible oil at different rates against Z. subfasciatus. All parameters at all botanical seed and leaf powder rates showed a significant difference over the untreated control, except for seed damage at 5 g leaf powders of sweet fennel and broad-leaved croton. Neem, wild marigold, and Hochst at the rates of 5, 10, and 15 g/150 g, sweet fennel at 10 and 15 g/150 g and broad-leaved croton at 15 g/150 g resulted in 96 – 100% seed protection, reduced emergence of F1 progeny, seed damage, and seed weight loss and were statistically at par with primphos-methyl. All tested botanical powders recorded 87 – 100% germination. The botanical oils and mustard cooking oil at rates of 0.5, 1.5, and 3 mL per 150 g common bean produced adult beetle mortality in the range of 93 – 100% and seed protection of 99 – 100%. Thus, smallholder farmers can use any of the above indicated botanical powders or oils for postharvest storage depending on their availability against Z. subfasciatus. Further research on botanical powders and oils under farmers’ storage conditions is important.
Graves’ orbitopathy development in thyroid cancer patients: A 16-year nationwide cohort study in South Korea
Authors: Lee Jeong Kyu , Kim Minjeong , Lee Jooyoung , Hwang Yu Been , Kang Jinmo , Ahn Hwa Young
Published: September 2023

Background/Objectives:
Thyroid cancer patients, without history of hyperthyroid condition, suffer from Graves’ orbitopathy (GO). We investigated its incidence, possible risk factors and prognosis.
Subjects/Methods:
This study is a retrospective cohort study that analyzes medical records of 1,137,861 South Korean patients from 2002 to 2019. Those whom without hyperthyroidism or GO prior to thyroid cancer diagnosis were included. We investigated 8,499 individuals and compared the type of surgery, dose of radioactive iodine (RAI) and daily average thyroid hormone between GO group and non-GO group. In addition, each GO patient’s medical records were analyzed, and the course of disease and the type of treatment was described.
Results
Among 8,499 cancer patients, 7,836 cases received a thyroidectomy, and 12 were diagnosed with GO after surgery. None of the remaining 663 cases received a GO diagnosis. In addition, the GO group indicated a significantly higher total RAI dose average than the non-GO group (p = 0.036). Within the GO group, the approximate time from thyroid cancer diagnosis to GO occurrence was 460.5 (331.0-984.8) days. Five patients underwent RAI therapy before GO diagnosis. Of these, four expressed GO within a year post-RAI therapy, and the total iodine dose before GO was 168.5 (139.8-203.8) mCi. The average daily thyroid hormone dose before GO was 85 (70–120) µg. One case required intravenous and oral steroids
Conclusions
Although GO rarely develops in thyroid cancer patients without coexisting hyperthyroidism, the total RAI dose may increase its risk. Further study regarding its pathogenesis would help clarify GO’s association with thyroid cancer.
The significance of Mongolian spots for primary screening of Mucopolysaccharidosis
Authors: Mao Shao-Jia , Zu Yu-Mei , Yuan Tian-Ming , Zou Chaochun
Published: September 2023

Background
To explore the significance of Mongolian spots for the primary screening of mucopolysaccharidosis (MPS).
Method
In this study, the incidence, size, number, distribution, and regression of Mongolian spots in 225 patients diagnosed with MPS in China followed between 2020 and 2021 were retrospectively investigated, and compared with those in 209 normal newborns.
Results
The diagnostic age ranged from 0 to 32 years old with a median diagnostic age was 3 years old. Although the total incidence of MPS patients with Mongolian spots (73.78%) was higher than that in normal newborns (66.51%), there was no statistical significance. The incidence of Mongolian spots ≥ 2 or ≥ 5 in MPS group was significantly higher than that in control group (P < 0.001). The average number of Mongolian spots in MPS patients at least greater than or equal to (2.84 ± 2.47) was higher than that in normal newborns (1.09 ± 1.33) with a significant difference (P < 0.001). The age of diagnosis with less than 2 Mongolian spots (median diagnostic age = 4.00) was later than with greater than or equal to 2 Mongolian spots (median diagnostic age = 3.00) in MPS group (z=-3.103, P = 0.002). The age of diagnosis with less than 5 Mongolian spots (median diagnostic age = 4) was later than with greater than or equal to 5 Mongolian spots (median diagnostic age = 3) in MPS group (z=-2.728, P = 0.006). Comparing MPS groups (median maximum length = 7.0cm) and control groups (median maximum length = 3.0cm), the two groups were statistically different (z=-7.801, P < 0.001). In MPS group, Mongolian spots were mainly distributed in the buttocks (81.93%) and back (68.07%), followed by the lower limbs (27.71%), abdomen (22.29%), and upper limbs (19.88%), with fewer distribution in areas such as the head, face, neck, and chest. Among the MPS patients born with Mongolian spots, there were 19.28% of patients had the disappearance of Mongolian spots by the time of investigation.
Conclusions
This study demonstrated Mongolian spots were a common feature in patients with MPS, especially in type 2, 1, and 6. Extensive Mongolian spots might be an indicator for early screening of MPS.
Incremental Health Care Expenditures Associated with Hypertension in South Korea
Authors: Kim Tae Hyun , Hong Minji , Kim Bomgyeol , Chang Hyuk-Jae
Published: September 2023

Hypertension is a significant risk factor for cardiovascular disease and the number of deaths due to hypertension increases annually. The increasing healthcare costs of hypertension are a major societal and personal issue. By estimating the medical expenses incurred by patients with hypertension, this study aimed to provide information on the additional costs of hypertension and emphasize the importance of blood pressure management. Health Panel data from 2014 to 2018 were used to calculate incremental out-of-pocket healthcare costs associated with hypertension. First, we compared the mean annual differences in medical expenditure of people with and without hypertension each year. Second, we analyzed five-year panel data from 2014 to 2018 using random Generalized Least Squares. In a cross-sectional mean difference analysis, we found that as of 2018, individuals with hypertension spent an average of 537,735 won more per year on healthcare than those without hypertension. In a five-year panel data analysis, hypertension was associated with an average of 295,803 won in medical expenses per year for the same sex, age, and income groups. Hypertension incurs incremental costs in treating the condition and its complications. This study aimed to provide information on out-of-pocket healthcare costs associated with hypertension. We highlight the importance of ongoing disease management by discussing the financial burden of chronic diseases on individuals. Managing blood pressure at a young age can reduce healthcare costs throughout an individual’s lifetime.
Memory consolidation drives the enhancement of remote cocaine memory via prefrontal circuit
Authors: Lu Lin , Liu Xiaoxing , Lu Tangsheng , Chen Xuan , Huang Shihao , Zheng Wei , Zhang Wen , Meng Shi-Qiu , Yan Wei , Shi Le , Bao Yanping , Xue Yan-Xue , Shi Jie , Yuan Kai , Han Ying
Published: September 2023

Remote memory usually decreases over time, whereas remote drug-cue associated memory exhibits enhancement, increasing the risk of relapse during abstinence. Memory system consolidation is a prerequisite for remote memory formation, but neurobiological underpinnings of the role of consolidation in the enhancement of remote drug memory are unclear. Here, we found that remote cocaine-cue associated memory was enhanced in rats that underwent self-administration training, together with a progressive increase in the response of prelimbic cortex (PrL) CaMKⅡ neurons to cues. System consolidation was required for the enhancement of remote cocaine memory through PrL CaMKⅡ neurons during the early period post-training. Furthermore, dendritic spine maturation in the PrL relied on the basolateral amygdala (BLA) input during the early period of consolidation, contributing to remote memory enhancement. These findings indicate that memory consolidation drives the enhancement of remote cocaine memory through a time-dependently increase in activity and maturation of PrL CaMKⅡ neurons receiving a sustained BLA input.
Performance of ChatGPT in Dentistry: Multi-specialty and multi-centric study
Authors: Sybil Deborah , Shrivastava Priyanshu , Rai Arpita , Injety Ranjit , Singh Sanjay , Jain Ashish , Mahuli Amit , Parushetti Anita , Sharma Anka , Sivakumar Arvind , Narang Bindiya , Sultan Farheen , Shah Gaurav , Sridha Gokul , Augustine Jeyaseelan , Ranjan Madhu , Singh Neelam , Mehta Nishant , Sultan Nishat , Batra Panchali , Singh Sangita , Goel Sapna , Roy Sayani , Sachdeva Shabina , Tapashetti Sharmila , Mahuli Simpy , Kannan Sridhar , Verma Sugandha , . Tushar , Yadav Vijay , Gupta Vivek
Published: September 2023

Background: Artificial Intelligence (AI) powered tools have transformed the field of healthcare. A recently launched large language model, ChatGPT has gained significant traction due to its communicative interface and relevance of the responses generated. This tool could be utilized in dentistry for dental education, and possibly as a clinical decision support system. Hence, it is imperative to evaluate the accuracy of the model in relation to the responses generated for dental-related queries.

Methods: This multi-centric study involved 27 subject experts from nine dental specialties of various institutions and 2 heads of institutions. A total of 243 questions were formulated and the answers generated by ChatGPT (version: 3.5) were rated in terms of accuracy (6-point Likert), completeness (4-point Likert), and relevance (5-point Likert).

Results: The mean accuracy of the ChatGPT-generated answers was 4.61 (SD 1.575), with a median of 5.33. For completeness, mean score was 2.01 (SD 0.793), and the median was 2.33. Regarding relevance, a mean of 3.13 (SD 1.590) and median of 3.67 were obtained. The highest ratings were observed for answers related to Oral Medicine and Radiology, as well as for open-ended questions, and questions labelled as easy in terms of difficulty.

Conclusion: The promising results observed in the study promote the application of ChatGPT for retrieving dental information. However, it is crucial to exercise caution and seek advice from a qualified healthcare for dental health-related queries. Further large-scale testing of the model is necessary before incorporating it into dental clinical practice.
Assessing Emerging and Priority Micropollutants in Sewage Sludge: Environmental Insights and Analytical Approaches
Authors: Rede Diana , Teixeira Ivan , Delerue-Matos Cristina , Fernandes Virginia Cruz
Published: September 2023

This study presents a thorough evaluation of emerging and priority micropollutants in sewage sludge (SS), through the lens of environmental insights, by developing and implementing an integrated analytical approach. A quick, easy, cheap, effective, rugged and safe (QuEChERS) extraction method, coupled with gas chromatography and liquid chromatography, was optimized for the determination of 42 organic compounds. These include organophosphorus pesticides, organochlorine pesticides, pyrethroid pesticides, organophosphate ester flame retardants, polybrominated diphenyl ethers, polychlorinated biphenyls, and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons. The optimization of the dispersive-solid phase for clean-up, combined with the optimization of chromatographic parameters, ensured improved sensitivity. Method validation included assessments for recovery, reproducibility, limit of detection (LOD), and limit of quantification (LOQ) assessments. Recoveries ranged from 59.5–117%, while LODs ranged from 0.00700 µg g− 1 to 0.271 µg g− 1. Application of the method to seven SS samples from Portuguese wastewater treatment plants revealed the presence of sixteen compounds, including persistent organic pollutants. Notably, the quantification of α-endosulfan, an organochlorine pesticide, was consistently observed in all samples, with concentrations ranging from 0.110 µg g− 1 to 0.571 µg g− 1. Furthermore, the study encompasses the analysis of agronomic parameters, as well as the mineral and metal content in SS samples. The study demonstrates that the levels of heavy metals comply with legal limits. By conducting a comprehensive investigation into the presence of micropollutants in SS, this study contributes to a deeper understanding of the environmental and sustainable implications associated with SS management.
Study protocol for a randomized, controlled, multicentre, pragmatic trial with Rehabkompassen® – A digital structured follow-up tool for facilitating patient-tailored rehabilitation in persons after stroke
Authors: Hu Xiaolei , Liv Per , Lundström Erik , Norström Fredrik , Lindahl Olof , Borg Kristian , Sunnerhagen Katharina S
Published: September 2023

Background
Stroke is a leading cause of disability among adults worldwide. A timely structured follow-up tool to identify patients’ rehabilitation needs and develop patient-tailored rehabilitation regimens to decrease disability is largely lacking in current stroke care. The overall purposes of this study are to evaluate the effectiveness of a novel digital follow-up tool, Rehabkompassen®, among persons discharged from acute care settings after stroke.
Methods
This multicentre, parallel, open-label, two-arm pragmatic randomized controlled trial with an allocation ratio of 1:1 will be conducted in Sweden. A total of 1106 adult stroke patients will have follow-up visits in usual care settings at 3 and 12 months after stroke onset. At the 3-month follow-up, participants will have a usual outpatient visit without (control group, n = 553) or with (intervention group, n = 553) the Rehabkompassen® tool. All participants will receive the intervention at the 12-month follow-up visit. Feedback from the end-users (patient and health care practitioners) will be collected after the visits. The primary outcomes will be the patients’ independence and social participation at the 12-month visits. Secondary outcomes will include end-users’ satisfaction, barriers and facilitators for adopting the instrument, other stroke impacts, health-related quality of life, and the cost-effectiveness of the instrument, calculated by incremental cost per quality-adjusted life year (QALY).
Discussion
The outcomes of this trial will inform clinical practice and health care policy on the role of the Rehabkompassen® digital follow-up tool in the postacute continuum of care after stroke.
Trial registration
ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT04915027, Registered on 4 June 2021.
Combined surgery and radiotherapy for synchronous multiple primary lung cancers: a clinical retrospective study
Authors: Kawagishi Sachi , Kanzaki Ryu , Watari Hirokazu , Omura Akiisa , Tanaka Ryo , Maniwa Tomohiro , Tanaka Kazunori , Ikawa Toshiki , Kanayama Naoyuki , Morimoto Masahiro , Konishi Koji , Okami Jiro
Published: September 2023

Background
The recommended treatment strategy for early-stage synchronous multiple primary lung cancers (sMPLC) involves multiple resections of all lesions, if possible. However, some patients with sMPLC cannot tolerate multiple surgeries due to comorbidities or deterioration in lung functions. We aimed to analyze the outcomes of the combination of surgery and radiotherapy for sMPLC.
Methods
The clinical data of patients who underwent treatment with a combination of surgery and radiotherapy for sMPLC at a single center were collected, and the outcomes were analyzed.
Results
Among 3578 patients with non-small cell lung cancer who underwent surgical resection with curative intent, 332 had sMPLC. Of these, 20 received a combination of surgery and radiotherapy for each tumor. Sixteen patients were male, and four were female. The median patient age was 74 years (range: 60–84 years). The median follow-up period after pulmonary resection was 42 months (range: 7–184 months). The median tumor size was 18.5 mm (range, 10–55 mm) in the first cancer and 11.9 mm (range, 4–29 mm) in the second. Pulmonary resection was performed in the first cancer, with lobectomy for nine patients, and segmentectomy and wedge resection were performed for seven and four patients, respectively. Radiotherapy was administered in the second cancer. Stereotactic body radiation therapy, 3-dimensional conformal radiation therapy, and particle radiotherapy were performed in ten, eight, and two patients, respectively. Six patients died, while 14 patients were alive. Four patients died from lung cancer and two died from other diseases. The 3-year overall survival rate was 72.4%, and the 3-year progression-free survival rate was 69.6%. The 3-year local control rate for the second cancer was 95.0%.
Conclusions:
Treatment with a combination of surgery and radiotherapy is a viable option for sMPLC, when surgical resection cannot be performed for all lesions.
The effect of etomidate versus midazolam-sodium thiopental on attenuating the cardiovascular response to laryngoscopy and tracheal intubation.
Authors: Shetabi Hamidreza , farsani Darush moradi , Alafchian Zahra
Published: September 2023

Introduction: Laryngoscopy and tracheal intubation lead to an increase in the sympathetic reflex response, which is associated with an increase in heart rate and blood pressure. This response can be harmful in high-risk patients. The aim of this study is to investigate the effects of etomidate compared with midazolam and sodium thiopental in weakening the sympathetic response to laryngoscopy and tracheal intubation. Methods: This double-blind clinical study was conducted in 2020 at Al-Zahra Hospital in Isfahan on two groups of 39 candidates for elective surgery under general anesthesia. Anesthesia was induced by etomidate (E) 0.3 mg/kg in the first group and sodium thiopental 2.5 mg/kg and midazolam 0.075 mg/kg in the second group (TM), then the patient was intubated. Laryngoscopy findings and cardiovascular response were evaluated during the study and finally the data were analyzed using SPSS version 23. (IBM SPSS, Armonk, NY, USA). Results: There was no significant difference between the two groups in terms of age (P = 0.82), weight (P = 0.42), height (P = 0.201), body mass index (P = 0.78), gender (P = 0.65), American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) physical status (P = 0.36) and laryngoscopy view grading (P = 0.83). The average laryngoscopy time in E group was less than TM group (P = 0.019). In the TM group at 10 minutes after intubation, mean diastolic blood pressure (P = 0.029) and mean arterial blood pressure (P = 0.023) were significantly lower, but at other times there was no significant difference between the two groups (P > 0.05).There was no significant difference between the two groups in terms of adverse responses to laryngoscopy and intubation (P = 0.19). Conclusion: The results of this study showed that the cardiovascular response to laryngoscopy and tracheal intubation in both groups is similar and it seems that TM instead of E can be used as needed.
Myth or Fact: 3D-printed off-the-shelf prosthesis is superior to Titanium mesh cage in anterior cervical corpectomy and fusion
Authors: He Haoyu , Fan Lei , Lü Guohua , Li Xinyi , Li Yunchao , Zhang Ou , Chen Zejun , Yuan Hui , Wang Xiaoxiao , Pan Changyu , Kuang Lei
Published: September 2023

Objective To find out if 3DP OTS prosthesis is superior to TMC in ACCF when treating single-segment DCSM.
Methods DCSM patients underwent ACCF from January 2016 to January 2019 in a single center were included. Patients were divided into the 3DP group (28) and the TMC group (23). The hospital stays, operation time, intraoperative blood loss, and the cost of hospitalization were compared. The JOA scores and NDI were recorded pre-operatively, 1 day, 3, 6, 12, and 24 months post-operatively. Radiological data was measured to evaluate fusion, subsidence, and cervical lordosis. Patients were sent with SF-36 to assess their HRQoL.
Results The differences in operative time, intraoperative blood loss, and hospital stay were not statistically significant between groups (p>0.05). Postoperative dysphagia occurred in 2 cases in the 3DP group and 3 cases in the TMC group, which all relieved one week later. The difference in improvement of JOA and NDI between the two groups was not statistically significant (p>0.05). No hardware failure was found and bony fusion was achieved in all cases except one in the 3DP group. The difference in CL, FSA, MVH, and subsidence rates between groups at each follow-up time point was not statistically significant and the results of the SF-36 were similar (p>0.05). The total cost was higher in the 3DP group with its higher graft cost (p<0.05).
Conclusion In treating single-segment DCSM with ACCF, both 3DP OTS prosthesis and TMC achieved satisfactory outcomes. However, the more costly 3DP OTS prosthesis was not able to reduce subsidence as it claimed.
Association and interaction analysis of NLRP3 gene polymorphisms with hypertension risk: A case-control study in China
Authors: Xia Wanning , Qi Mingming , Liu Yupeng , Mi Jing , Song Jian , Wu Xuesen
Published: September 2023

Background
As an important mechanism for regulating inflammatory reactions, the NOD-like receptor family pyrin domain containing 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome is considered the central pathogenic link of cardiovascular diseases. This study aimed to analyze the association and interaction between the rs10754558 polymorphism of NLRP3 and the risk of hypertension among Chinese adults.
Methods
All the participants who came from a community in Bengbu, China were investigated by being interviewed with a questionnaire. Overall, 354 paired case-control participants were analyzed. Genomic DNA was extracted from 5ml venous blood using the Tiangen DNA extraction kit. The rs10754558 polymorphism of the NLRP3 gene was genotyped by TaqMan allelic discrimination real-time PCR.The association between the rs10754558 polymorphism and hypertension risk was investigated by a logistic regression analysis. Furthermore, an additive interaction analysis was conducted using related indicators, including the relative excess risk due to interaction (RERI), attributable proportion due to interaction (AP), and synergy index (SI).
Results
Participants carrying the GG genotype were more likely to develop hypertension than participants carrying the CC genotype (adjusted odds ratio [OR]: 2.16, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.33–3.52). G allele carriers were 1.21 times more likely to have hypertension than non-G allele carriers. A significant additive interaction between the NLRP3 polymorphism and obesity status concerning the risk of hypertension was observed, as estimated by all indicators: RERI (1.12, 95% CI: 0.70–1.5), AP (0.34, 95% CI: 0.14–0.53), and SI (1.92, 95% CI: 1.03–3.59). The values of RERI (1.74, 95% CI: 0.37–3.11), AP (0.46, 95% CI: 0.21–0.70), and SI (2.62, 95% CI: 1.18–5.83) showed that a significant interaction between the rs10754558 polymorphism and a family history of hypertension.
Conclusions
Our results indicated that the NLRP3 rs10754558 polymorphism was significantly associated with the risk of hypertension among Chinese adults. Furthermore, there was a significant additive interaction between NLRP3 polymorphisms and obesity status concerning the risk of hypertension.
Community-based actions in consulates: a new paradigm for opportunities for systematic integration in Chagas disease detection
Authors: Prat Jordi Gómez i , Gregori Maria Serrano , Guiu Isabel Claveria , Choque Estefa , Flores-Chavez Maria Delmans , Molina Israel , Zarzuela Francesc , Sulleiro Elena , Dehousse Aurore , Albajar-Vinas Pedro , Ouaarab Hakima
Published: September 2023

Research has shown that multidimensional approaches to Chagas disease (CD), integrating its biomedical and psycho-socio-cultural components, are successful in enhancing early access to diagnosis, treatment and sustainable follow-up. For the first time, a consulate was selected for a community-based CD detection campaign. Two different strategies were designed and implemented between 2021 and 2022 at the Consulate General of Bolivia and a reference health facility in Barcelona. Strategy 1 consisted in CD awareness-raising activities before referring those interested to the reference facility for infectious disease screening. Strategy 2 offered additional in-situ CD screening. Most of the 307 participants were Bolivian women resident in Barcelona. In strategy 1, 73 people (35.8% of those who were offered the test) were screened and 19.2% of them were diagnosed with CD. Additionally, 53,4% completed their vaccination schedules and 28.8% were treated for other parasitic infections (strongyloidiasis, giardiasis, eosinophilia, syphilis). In strategy 2, 103 people were screened in-situ (100% of those who were offered the test) and 13.5% received a CD diagnosis. 21,4% completed their vaccination schedule at the reference health facility and 2,9% were referred for iron deficiency anemia, strongyloidiasis or chronic hepatitis C. The location of the screening, together with the presence of community-based participants, fueled trust and increased CD understanding. Each of the strategies assessed had different benefits. Opportunities for systematic integration based on community action in the official workplace of representatives of their own country may enhance early access to diagnosis, care and disease prevention.
Anticancer Medicinal Plants Used by Residents in the Elgon Sub-region, Eastern Uganda
Authors: Kudamba Ali , Kasolo Josephine N. , Bbosa Godfrey S. , Lugaajju Allan , Wabinga Henry , Niyonzima Nixon , Ocan Moses , Damani Ali M. , Kafeero Hussein M. , Walusansa Abdul , Ssenku Jamilu E. , Alemu Shaban O. , Lubowa Muhammad , Muwonge Haruna
Published: September 2023

Background: In Uganda, medicinal plants have been utilized to treat a variety of ailments, including cancer. The anticancer medicinal herbs employed in the Elgon sub-region, however, have only been the subject of a relatively small number of investigations. This study's major objective was to document the anticancer medicinal plants used to treat cancer in the Elgon sub-region of eastern Uganda, with a focus on prostate cancer.Methods:A semi-structured questionnaire that was administered by the researcher, interview guides, and guided field trips were used to collect ethnobotanical data. A number of quantitative indices were assessed, including informant consensus factor (ICF), fidelity level (FL), and preference ranking. A descriptive statistical analysis and graphs were produced using SPSS version 21.0 and GraphPad Prism version 8.125 respectively. The narratives were then interpreted using major theories and hypotheses in ethnobotany.Results:A total of 50 plant species from 36 families were documented and herbal knowledge was mainly acquired through inheritance. Most of the plant species revealed in this study belonged to the Fabaceae and Asteraceae families.Hydnora abyssinica A. Br. was mostly recommended by herbalists for prostate, cervical, and breast malignancies.Tylosema fassoglensiswas the most favored in regard to its ability to treat all known cancers in the area. The majority were collected from forest reserves (63%); herbal therapies were made from herbs (45%); and were primarily decocted (43%) from leaves (40%).Conclusions:The first 10 most often used plants all had FLI (71), ICF (0.8), and PV (60), values that were quite high, indicating that they are believed to be the most effective in treating the known cancers in this area. Therefore, further study is required to determine the phytochemistry, toxicity, and efficacy of these plants in order to develop a newer anticancer drug.
Clinical and epidemiological characteristics of human metapneumovirus infections in Central China post COVID-19 pandemic: a retrospective analysis
Authors: Ji Wangquan , Chen Yu , Han Shujie , Dai Bowen , Li Kang , Li Shuang , Li Zijie , Chen Shouhang , Zhang Yaodong , Zhang Xiaolong , Wang Qingmei , Zheng Jiaying , Wang Chenyu , Liang Qiujing , Han Shujuan , Zhang Ruyu , Wang Fang , Jin Yuefei , Li Xiaolong
Published: September 2023

Purpose
We aim to describe the clinical and epidemiological characteristics of human metapneumovirus (HMPV) infections after COVID-19 pandemic.
Methods
This retrospective single-center study included participants with laboratory confirmed HMPV infection who were admitted to Henan Children's Hospital from April 29 to June 5, 2023. Demographic data, clinical records, and laboratory indicators were analyzed. Stratified analysis was performed based on the duration from illness onset to hospitalization.
Results
From April 29 to June 5, 2023, 96 pediatric patients (33.5 months, interquartile range (IQR) 12 ~ 48 months), were identified to be infected with HMPV. The majority (87.5%) of infected children were no more than 5 years and the distribution of age among severe and mild groups was significantly different. Most patients had fever (81.3%) or cough (92.7%) and more patients in the severe group had wheezing (56% vs 21.1%). 43 patients were infected by one other viruses and coinfection with EBV (15.6%) or HRV type A (12.5%) was the most common. The rate of HRSV coinfection was significantly higher in the severe group (20% vs 1.4%). Bacterial coinfection was detected among 74 patients, including Hin in 50 children (52.1%), SNP in 40 children (41.7%). There was greater evidence of multiple-organ damage in severe patients, since severe patients presented with much more abnormal levels of laboratory indicators. Lower concentration of IL-12p70, decline of lymphocytes percentage, and elevated percentage of B lymphocyte in severe patients exhibited a statistical significance. Additionally, most of the indicators changed significantly after 4 ~ 5 days of onset.
Conclusions
Our data systemically presented the clinical and epidemiological features of pediatric patients with HMPV infection, which might be instructive to policy development for the prevention and control of HMPV infection and might provide important clues for HMPV research after the COVID-19 pandemic.
Antibiotic prophylaxis with piperacillin–tazobactam reduces organ/space surgical site infection after pancreaticoduodenectomy: A retrospective and propensity score-matched analysis
Authors: Yang Yifei , Sheng Jianjie , Cai Zhenghua , Zhu Linxi , Lu Chenglin , Mao Liang , Qiu Yu-dong , Fu Xu
Published: September 2023

Background
The occurrence of surgical site infection (SSI) after pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD) is still relatively high. The aim of this retrospective study is to evaluate the efficacy of piperacillin-tazobactam as perioperative prophylactic antibiotic on organ/space SSI for patients underwent PD.
Methods
407 consecutive patients who underwent PD between January 2018 and December 2022 were enrolled and analyzed retrospectively. The univariate and multivariate analysis were used to identify independent risk factors of organ/space SSI. Postoperative complications were compared between the two groups according to the use of prophylactic antibiotics by a ratio of 1:1 propensity score-matched (PSM) analysis.
Results
Based on perioperative prophylactic antibiotic use, all 407 patients were divided into the ceftriaxone group (n = 192, 47.2%) and piperacillin–tazobactam group (n = 215, 52.8%). The rate of organ/space SSI was 31.2% with the choice of perioperative antibiotics (OR = 2.837, 95%CI = 1.802–4.465, P < 0.01) as one of independent risk factors. After PSM, there were similar baseline characteristics among the groups. Meanwhile, the piperacillin–tazobactam group had a significant lower rate of organ/space SSI (P < 0.05) compared to the ceftriaxone group both before and after PSM.
Conclusions
The adoption of piperacillin–tazobactam as perioperative prophylaxis for patients underwent PD reduced organ/space SSI significantly.
Novel ultrasonographic evaluation of microvascular blood flow for the non-operative management of uncomplicated acute appendicitis in children
Authors: Kosaka Seitaro , Toma Miki , Asai Nobuyoshi , Yanai Toshihiro
Published: September 2023

Background: Superb microvascular imaging (SMI), in contrast to power Doppler (PD), enables visualization of microvascular blood flow (BF). We compared PD and SMI to determine whether SMI is superior in detecting appendiceal BF in uncomplicated acute appendicitis patients.
Methods: We prospectively reviewed all pediatric patients with acute appendicitis initially treated non-operatively and clinically evaluated using PD and SMI to determine the case severity, monitor appendiceal BF, and assess the reversibility of appendicitis. Complicated acute cases were excluded. Severity was classified using B-mode, PD ultrasonography, and additional SMI: Grade I - smooth wall/normal BF, Grade IIa - irregular wall/increased BF, Grade IIb - irregular wall/decreased BF, and Grade III - absence of wall/loss of BF.
SMI results were compared with those of PD alone.
Results: 129 patients with acute appendicitis were reviewed; 29 were excluded. In 100 patients (Grade I: 10, IIa: 29, IIb: 55, III: 6), no differences were observed between PD and SMI in appendiceal BF for Grades I and IIa, which all fully recovered. In all 55 patients with Grade IIb and decreased appendiceal BF on PD, SMI effectively detected appendiceal BF, and 52 recovered. Neither PD nor SMI were able to detect BF in Grade III patients who developed abscesses and for whom non-operative management failed.
Conclusions: SMI can accurately detect BF, even when decreased BF is observed by PD. SMI showed a higher sensitivity in detecting appendiceal BF compared to PD and may serve as a tool for patient selection for non-operative management of acute appendicitis.
Numerical Simulation and Performance Prediction of Ejection Impact of Air Spring Based on Fluid–Structure Interaction
Authors: li yuru , Xiao Shoune , Xie Junke , zhu Tao
Published: September 2023

Air springs have found wide application in cushioning and shock absorption, but their use in ejection scenarios is still in its early stages. To address the challenges of applying air spring in high-speed ejections of rail vehicles, this study focuses on the ejection of the driver's cabin structure and investigates the elastic performance of air spring using a series-parallel combination. The study analyzes ejection characteristics for air spring in a series-parallel configuration by number simulation. A second-order response surface method is employed to establish a predictive model for the ejection performance of air spring in this configuration. The model's accuracy is verified through virtual collision analysis of the driver's cabin in a rail vehicle. The ejection velocity exhibits a relative error of only 9.1%. The test vehicle, driven by air spring, achieves a maximum kinetic energy of 415 kJ, meeting the initial target value of not less than 408 kJ. Additionally, the analysis of wheel-rail interaction reveals that the vertical lift and lateral displacement of the test vehicle are within acceptable limits, measuring 5.49 mm and 9.89 mm, respectively, without exceeding the wheel flange height and tread width. These results demonstrate that air spring with series-parallel combination can successfully propel the test vehicle to conduct driver's cabin collision tests, without any derailment or overturning. As a result, the study realizes ejection tests using air spring with series-parallel combination. The research on the ejection performance of air spring in this configuration offers a new driving and ejection method for applying air spring in rail vehicles, drones, and air-launched missiles, presenting promising prospects for future applications.
Dual Contrastive Learning based Image-to-Image Translation of Unstained Skin Tissue into Virtually Stained H&E Images
Authors: Asaf Muhammad Zeeshan , Rao Babar , Akram Muhammad Usman , Khawaja Sajid Gul , Khan Samavia , Truong Thu Minh , Sekhon Palveen , Khan Irfan J. , Abbasi Muhammad Shahmir
Published: September 2023

Background: Staining is a crucial step in histopathology that prepares tissue sections for microscopic examination. Hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining, also known as basic or routine staining, is used in 80% of histopathology slides worldwide. To enhance the histopathology workflow, recent research has focused on integrating generative artificial intelligence and deep learning models. These models have the potential to improve staining accuracy, reduce staining time, and minimize the use of hazardous chemicals, making histopathology a safer and more efficient field.
Methods: In this study, we introduce a novel three-stage, dual contrastive learning-based, image-to-image generative (DCLGAN) model for virtually applying an "H&E stain" to unstained skin tissue images. The proposed model utilizes a unique learning setting comprising two pairs of generators and discriminators. By employing contrastive learning, our model maximizes the mutual information between traditional H&E-stained and virtually stained H&E patches. Our dataset consists of pairs of unstained and H&E-stained images, scanned with a brightfield microscope at 20x magnification, providing a comprehensive set of training and testing images for evaluating the efficacy of our proposed model.
Findings: Two metrics, Fréchet Inception Distance (FID) and Kernel Inception Distance (KID), were used to quantitatively evaluate virtual stained slides. Our analysis revealed that the average FID score between virtually stained and H&E-stained images (80.47) was considerably lower than that between unstained and virtually stained slides (342.01), and unstained and H&E stained (320.4) indicating a similarity virtual and H&E stains. Similarly, the mean KID score between H&E stained and virtually stained images (0.022) was significantly lower than the mean KID score between unstained and H&E stained (0.28) or unstained and virtually stained (0.31) images. In addition, a group of experienced dermatopathologists evaluated traditional and virtually stained images and demonstrated an average agreement of 78.8% and 90.2% for paired and single virtual stained image evaluations, respectively.
Interpretation: Our study demonstrates that the proposed three-stage dual contrastive learning-based image-to-image generative model is effective in generating virtual stained images, as indicated by quantified parameters and grader evaluations. In addition, our findings suggest that GAN models have the potential to replace traditional H&E staining, which can reduce both time and environmental impact. This study highlights the promise of virtual staining as a viable alternative to traditional staining techniques in histopathology.