bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The role of circulating T cells with a tissue resident phenotype (ex-TRM) in health and disease
Authors: Rodger Beverley , Stagg Andrew J. , Lindsay James O.
Published: May 2024

Tissue-resident memory T cells (TRM) are long-lived memory lymphocytes that persist in non-lymphoid tissues and provide the first line of defence against invading pathogens. They adapt to their environment in a tissue-specific manner, exerting effective pathogen control through a diverse T cell receptor (TCR) repertoire and the expression of proinflammatory cytokines and cytolytic proteins. More recently, several studies have indicated that TRM can egress from the tissue into the blood as so-called “ex-TRM”, or “circulating cells with a TRM phenotype”. The numerically small ex-TRM population can re-differentiate in the circulation, giving rise to new memory and effector T cells. Following their egress, ex-TRM in the blood and secondary lymphoid organs can be identified based on their continued expression of the residency marker CD103, alongside other TRM-like features. Currently, it is unclear whether exit is a stochastic process, or is actively triggered in response to unknown factors. Also, it is not known whether a subset or all TRM are able to egress. Ex-TRM may be beneficial in health, as mobilisation of specialised TRM and their recruitment to both their site of origin as well as distant tissues results in an efficient distribution of the immune response. However, there is emerging evidence of a pathogenic role for ex-TRM, with a suggestion that they may perpetuate both local and distant tissue inflammation. Here, we review the evidence for the existence of ex-TRM and examine their potential involvement in disease pathogenesis.
Analysis of influencing factors of seawater intrusion in the Yangtze River Estuary and control for water supply security
Authors: Chen Yubin , Xu Yuni , Chen Guiya , Zeng Ming , Zhang Tao , Zhang Xiao , Zhang Yu
Published: May 2024

Seawater intrusion poses a significant threat to the water supply of coastal cities both presently and in the future. It is crucial to identify the controllable factors influencing seawater intrusion, both natural and anthropogenic, in order to ensure water supply security. This study examined seawater intrusion characteristics using monitoring data from 1994 to 2019. Factors such as daily flow rate, duration of intrusion, water quality, and tidal level were analyzed to establish correlations and identify the primary influencing factors in the Yangtze River Estuary. The findings reveal that seawater intrusion in this area is most prevalent from November to April, peaking in February and March. The key controllable factors affecting chloride levels at the intake are the daily flow rate at Datong Station and the tidal range at Xuliujing Station. Additionally, the study proposes control methods to safeguard water supply, including providing daily flow rate values for flushing seawater intrusion at Datong Station under different tidal ranges and intrusion durations. These research results provide valuable guidance for the emergency operation of the Three Gorges-centered reservoir group against seawater intrusion.
Clinical, radiological, and laboratory features of HIV-negative pulmonary cryptococcosis with regard to serum lateral flow assay
Authors: Shi Jiejun , Chen Jianhua , Hu Liqing , Song Qifa , Qian Guoqing
Published: May 2024

Introduction

Cryptococcosis is the second most common invasive yeast infection in China. Pulmonary cryptococcosis (PC) is difficult to diagnose due to the lack of specific clinical features and the limitation of diagnostic techniques. Although lateral flow assay was very useful in diagnosing cryptococcal infection, quite a few patients with PC presented negative serum lateral flow assay (sLFA).

Methods

We conducted a retrospective study of HIV-negative patients who were diagnosed with PC in our hospital over the past decade to explore the potential relationship between the clinical profiles and sLFA in PC.

Results

In total, 112 patients with sLFA tested were enrolled in this study, of which 58.93% were male. The positivity rate of sLFA for PC was 91.07%. The extent of pulmonary lesions was positively correlated with sLFA grade (Spearman r = 0.268, p < 0.01). Solitary nodule (SN) and pneumonia were the most common imaging findings in PC with negative and positive sLFA respectively. Among 65 symptomatic PC patients, 14 presented with fever and had higher hypersensitive C-reactive protein (hsCRP) level and more extensive pulmonary involvement (Mann-Whitney U test, p < 0.05) than those without fever. Symptomatic PC patients were more likely to have positive results of sLFA (Mann-Whitney U test, p = 0.05) compared against asymptomatic ones.

Discussion

In conclusion, negative sLFA cannot exclude PC in patients with a solitary nodule in lung. Positive sLFA is more reliable in diagnosing PC in symptomatic patients with diffused lesions in lung who generally experience a more severe systemic inflammatory reaction.
Establishing reference intervals for common hematology test parameters from apparently healthy geriatrics in Asella town, Southeast Ethiopia, 2020: a community-based cross-sectional study
Authors: Hashim Harka Mohammed , Siraj Zuber , Dibaba Berhanu , Zerihun Mamo Tewodros , Ajema Bayyisa , Tsegaye Aster , Wordofa Moges
Published: May 2024

Background

Reference intervals are an important method tool for identifying abnormal laboratory test results. Complete blood count reference values are useful to interpret complete blood count (CBC) results and make clinical decisions, but these values have not been established for geriatrics in Asella town. Therefore, this study aimed to establish reference intervals (RIs) for complete blood count (CBC) parameters from geriatric participants/subjects in Asella town, Southeast Ethiopia.

Methods

A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted from December 2019 to May 2020. An interviewer-administered questionnaire was used to collect data on sociodemography and other characteristics from 342 eligible geriatric participants. Weight, height, and vital signs were measured, and 8 mL of blood sample was collected. Screening tests such as HIV, HBsAg, HCV, syphilis, stool examination, and urinalysis were performed. The hematological parameter was measured using a Sysmex kx-21 hematology analyzer. The data were analyzed using SPSS version 21 software. The non-parametric independent Kruskal–Wallis test and Wilcoxon rank-sum test (Mann–Whitney U test) were used to compare the parameters between age groups and genders. The 97.5 and 2.5th percentile were the upper and lower reference limit for the population.

Results

According to the study’s findings, the reference intervals of red blood cell, white blood cell, platelet count, hemoglobin (HGB), and hematocrit (HCT) in male geriatrics were 3.8–5.85 × 1012/L, 3.1–9.66 × 109/L, 115.8–353 × 109/L, 12.4–17.76 g/dL, and 35.06–50.2%, respectively. The respective values for women were 3.94–5.48 × 1012/L, 3.13–8.4 × 109/L, 137.5–406 × 109/L, 12.5–16.4 g/dL, and 36.09–48.2%. Most of the hematological parameters showed significant differences between the two genders (p value <0.05).

Conclusion

Accurate gender and age-specific reference intervals are crucial in managing patient health. The current study offers essential CBC hematological parameters that can assist clinicians in interpreting laboratory results and can improve healthcare quality in the geriatric population. Therefore, it is more relevant to use the current RIs in the geriatric set-up.
Global trends and hotspots of ChatGPT in medical research: a bibliometric and visualized study
Authors: Liu Ling , Qu Shenhong , Zhao Haiyun , Kong Lingping , Xie Zhuzhu , Jiang Zhichao , Zou Pan
Published: May 2024

Objective

With the rapid advancement of Chat Generative Pre-Trained Transformer (ChatGPT) in medical research, our study aimed to identify global trends and focal points in this domain.

Method

All publications on ChatGPT in medical research were retrieved from the Web of Science Core Collection (WoSCC) by Clarivate Analytics from January 1, 2023, to January 31, 2024. The research trends and focal points were visualized and analyzed using VOSviewer and CiteSpace.

Results

A total of 1,239 publications were collected and analyzed. The USA contributed the largest number of publications (458, 37.145%) with the highest total citation frequencies (2,461) and the largest H-index. Harvard University contributed the highest number of publications (33) among all full-time institutions. The Cureus Journal of Medical Science published the most ChatGPT-related research (127, 10.30%). Additionally, Wiwanitkit V contributed the majority of publications in this field (20). “Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML),” “Education and Training,” “Healthcare Applications,” and “Data Analysis and Technology” emerged as the primary clusters of keywords. These areas are predicted to remain hotspots in future research in this field.

Conclusion

Overall, this study signifies the interdisciplinary nature of ChatGPT research in medicine, encompassing AI and ML technologies, education and training initiatives, diverse healthcare applications, and data analysis and technology advancements. These areas are expected to remain at the forefront of future research, driving continued innovation and progress in the field of ChatGPT in medical research.
Direct comparison of Hoxb8-driven reporter distribution in the brains of four transgenic mouse lines: towards a spinofugal projection atlas
Authors: Barraclough Bridget N. , Stubbs W. Terrence , Bohic Manon , Upadhyay Aman , Abraira Victoria E. , Ramer Matt S.
Published: May 2024

Introduction

Hox genes govern rostro-caudal identity along the developing spinal cord, which has a well-defined division of function between dorsal (sensory) and ventral (motor) halves. Here we exploit developmental Hoxb8 expression, normally restricted to the dorsal cord below the obex, to genetically label spinal cord-to-brain (“spinofugal”) axons.

Methods

We crossed two targeted (knock-in) and two non-targeted recombinase-expressing lines (Hoxb8-IRES-Cre and Hoxb8-T2AFlpO; Hoxb8-Cre and Hoxb8-FlpO, respectively) with appropriate tdtomato-expressing reporter strains. Serial sectioning, confocal and superresolution microscopy, as well as light-sheet imaging was used to reveal robust labeling of ascending axons and their terminals in expected and unexpected regions.

Results

This strategy provides unprecedented anatomical detail of ascending spinal tracts anterior to the brainstem, and reveals a previously undescribed decussating tract in the ventral hypothalamus (the spinofugal hypothalamic decussating tract, or shxt). The absence of Hoxb8-suppressing elements led to multiple instances of ectopic reporter expression in Hoxb8-Cre mice (retinal ganglion and vomeronasal axons, anterior thalamic nuclei and their projections to the anterior cingulate and retrosplenial cortices and subiculum, and a population of astrocytes at the cephalic flexure) and Hoxb8-FlpO mice (Cajal–Retzius cells of the dentate gyrus, and mesenchymal cells of the choroid plexus). While targeted transgenic lines were similar in terms of known spinofugal projections, Hoxb8-IRES-Cre reporters had an additional projection to the core of the facial motor nucleus, and more abundant Hoxb8-lineage microglia scattered throughout the brain than Hoxb8-T2A-FlpO (or any other) mice, suggesting dysregulated Hoxb8-driven reporter expression in one or both lines.

Discussion

This work complements structural and connectivity atlases of the mouse central nervous system, and provides a platform upon which their reactions to injury or disease can be studied. Ectopic Hoxb8-driven recombinase expression may also be a useful tool to study structure and function of other cell populations in non-targeted lines.
Gershgorin circle theorem-based feature extraction for biomedical signal analysis
Authors: Patel Sahaj A. , Smith Rachel June , Yildirim Abidin
Published: May 2024

Recently, graph theory has become a promising tool for biomedical signal analysis, wherein the signals are transformed into a graph network and represented as either adjacency or Laplacian matrices. However, as the size of the time series increases, the dimensions of transformed matrices also expand, leading to a significant rise in computational demand for analysis. Therefore, there is a critical need for efficient feature extraction methods demanding low computational time. This paper introduces a new feature extraction technique based on the Gershgorin Circle theorem applied to biomedical signals, termed Gershgorin Circle Feature Extraction (GCFE). The study makes use of two publicly available datasets: one including synthetic neural recordings, and the other consisting of EEG seizure data. In addition, the efficacy of GCFE is compared with two distinct visibility graphs and tested against seven other feature extraction methods. In the GCFE method, the features are extracted from a special modified weighted Laplacian matrix from the visibility graphs. This method was applied to classify three different types of neural spikes from one dataset, and to distinguish between seizure and non-seizure events in another. The application of GCFE resulted in superior performance when compared to seven other algorithms, achieving a positive average accuracy difference of 2.67% across all experimental datasets. This indicates that GCFE consistently outperformed the other methods in terms of accuracy. Furthermore, the GCFE method was more computationally-efficient than the other feature extraction techniques. The GCFE method can also be employed in real-time biomedical signal classification where the visibility graphs are utilized such as EKG signal classification.
Research trends of ferroptosis and pyroptosis in Parkinson’s disease: a bibliometric analysis
Authors: Wu Zihua , Zhong Kexin , Tang Biao , Xie Sijian
Published: May 2024

Objective

This study aims to visualize the trends and hotspots in the research of “ferroptosis in PD” and “pyroptosis in PD” through bibliometric analysis from the past to 2024.

Methods

Literature was retrieved from the Web of Science Core Collection (WoSCC) from the past to February 16, 2024, and bibliometric analysis was conducted using Vosviewer and Citespace.

Results

283 and 542 papers were collected in the field of “ferroptosis in PD” and “pyroptosis in PD.” The number of publications in both fields has increased yearly, especially in “ferroptosis in PD,” which will become the focus of PD research. China, the United States and England had extensive exchanges and collaborations in both fields, and more than 60% of the top 10 institutions were from China. In the fields of “ferroptosis in PD” and “pyroptosis in PD,” the University of Melbourne and Nanjing Medical University stood out in terms of publication numbers, citation frequency, and centrality, and the most influential journals were Cell and Nature, respectively. The keyword time zone map showed that molecular mechanisms and neurons were the research hotspots of “ferroptosis in PD” in 2023, while memory and receptor 2 were the research hotspots of “pyroptosis in PD” in 2023, which may predict the future research direction.

Conclusion

This study provides insights into the development, collaborations, research themes, hotspots, and tendencies of “ferroptosis in PD” and “pyroptosis in PD.” Overall situation of these fields is available for researchers to further explore the underlying mechanisms and potential treatments.
Prediction of survival after neoadjuvant therapy in locally advanced rectal cancer – a retrospective analysis
Authors: Piringer Gudrun , Ponholzer Florian , Thaler Josef , Bachleitner-Hofmann Thomas , Rumpold Holger , de Vries Alexander , Weiss Lukas , Greil Richard , Gnant Michael , Öfner Dietmar
Published: May 2024

Purpose

The aim of this retrospective analysis was to determine if the response to preoperative radio(chemo)therapy is predictive for survival among patients with locally advanced rectal cancer and may act as a potential surrogate endpoint for disease free survival and overall survival.

Results

Eight hundred seventy-eight patients from five centers were analyzed. There were 304 women and 574 men; the median age was 64.7 years. 77.6% and 22.4% of patients received neoadjuvant radiochemotherapy or short-course radiotherapy, resulting in a pathological complete response in 7.3%. T-downstaging and N-downstaging occurred in 50.5% and 37% of patients after neoadjuvant therapy. In patients with T-downstaging, the 10-year DFS and 10-year OS were 64.8% and 66.8% compared to 37.1% and 45.9% in patients without T-downstaging. N-downstaging resulted in 10-year DFS and 10-year OS in 56.2% and 62.5% compared to 47.3% and 52.3% without N-downstaging. Based on routinely evaluated clinical parameters, an absolute risk prediction calculator was generated for 5-year disease-free survival, and 5-year overall survival.

Conclusion

T-downstaging and N-downstaging after neoadjuvant radiochemotherapy or short-course radiotherapy resulted in better DFS and OS compared to patients without response. Based on clinical parameters, 5-year DFS, and 5-year OS can be predicted using a prediction calculator.
Predicting treatment failure in stage III colon cancer patients after radical surgery
Authors: Zeng Hao , Zhong Xuejing , Liu Wenxin , Liang Baofeng , Xue Xueyi , Yu Nong , Xu Dongbo , Wang Xiaojie , Lin Shuangming
Published: May 2024

Purpose

The aim to assess treatment failure in patients with stage III colon cancer who underwent radical surgery and was analyzed using the nomogram.

Methods

Clinical factors and survival outcomes for stage III colon cancer patients registered in the SEER database from 2018 to 2019 were analyzed, with patients split into training and testing cohorts (7:3 ratio). A total of 360 patients from the First Affiliated Hospital of Longyan served as an external validation cohort. Independent predictors of treatment failure were identified using logistic regression analyses. The nomograms was evaluated by concordance index (C-index), calibration curves, and the area under the curve (AUC), decision curve analysis (DCA) and clinical impact curves (CIC) assessed the clinical utility of nomograms versus TNM staging.

Results

The study included 4,115 patients with stage III colon cancer. Multivariate logistic analysis age, tumor site, pT stage, pN stage, chemotherapy, pretreatment CEA levels, number of harvested lymph nodes, perineural invasion and marital status were identified as independent risk factors for treatment failure. The C-indices for the training and testing sets were 0.853 and 0.841. Validation by ROC and calibration curves confirmed the stability and reliability of the model. DCA showed that the net clinical effect of the histogram was superior to that of the TNM staging system, while CIC highlighted the potentially large clinical impact of the model.

Conclusions

The developed Nomogram provides a powerful and accurate tool for clinicians to assess the risk of treatment failure after radical surgery in patients with stage III colon cancer.
The etiology and differential diagnosis of “autoimmune hepatitis-like liver disease” in children: a single-center retrospective study
Authors: Ma Di , Liu Xinglou , Ai Guo , Pan Wen , Liu Lingling , Huang Yuan , Liao Yi , Lu Yuanyuan , Zhang Zhan , Zhou Hua , Huang Zhihua , Hao Xingjie , Shu Sainan , Fang Feng
Published: May 2024

Background

Children with autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) often present with symptoms similar to those of other liver diseases. This study consists of a comparison between the clinical and histological characteristics of AIH and those of other four AIH-like liver diseases [i.e., drug-induced liver injury (DILI), gene deficiency, infectious liver disease and other etiology of liver disease], as well as an evaluation of the AIH scoring system's diagnostic performance.

Methods

All children with AIH-like liver disease at our center from January 2013 to December 2022 were included. The clinical and histological characteristics of the AIH group were retrospectively analyzed and compared with those of the other four groups.

Results

A total of 208 children were included and divided into AIH group (18 patients), DILI group (38 patients), gene deficiency group (44 patients), infectious liver disease group (74 patients), and other etiology group (34 patients). The antinuclear antibodies (ANA) ≥ 1:320 rate was significantly higher in the AIH compared to the other four groups after multiple testing correction (p < 0.0125), while patients with positive antibodies to liver-kidney microsomal-1 (anti-LKM1, n = 3) and smooth muscle antibodies (SMA, n = 2) were only observed in the AIH group. The positive rates of antibodies to liver cytosol type1 (anti-LC1) and Ro52 were higher than those in the other four groups. The serum immunoglobulin G (IgG) and globulin levels, as well as the proportions of portal lymphoplasmacytic infiltration, lobular hepatitis with more than moderate interface hepatitis, and lobular hepatitis with lymphoplasmacytic infiltration, were significantly higher in the AIH group than in the other four groups after multiple testing correction (p < 0.0125). The cirrhosis rate in the AIH group was higher than that in the DILI and infectious liver disease groups (p < 0.0125). Both the simplified (AUC > 0.73) and the revised systems (AUC > 0.93) for AIH have good diagnostic performance, with the latter being superior (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

Positive autoantibodies (ANA ≥ 1:320 or anti-LKM1 positive, or accompanied by SMA, anti-LC1 or Ro-52 positive) and elevated serum IgG or globulin levels contribute to early recognition of AIH. The presence of lobular hepatitis with more than moderate interface hepatitis and lymphoplasmacytic infiltration contribute to the diagnosis of AIH.
Modulation of the photobehavior of gefitinib and its phenolic metabolites by human transport proteins
Authors: Tamarit Lorena , El Ouardi Meryem , Lence Emilio , Andreu Inmaculada , González-Bello Concepcion , Miranda Miguel A. , Vayá Ignacio
Published: May 2024

The photobiological damage that certain drugs or their metabolites can photosensitize in proteins is generally associated with the nature of the excited species that are generated upon interaction with UVA light. In this regard, the photoinduced damage of the anticancer drug gefitinib (GFT) and its two main photoactive metabolites GFT-M1 and GFT-M2 in cellular milieu was recently investigated. With this background, the photophysical properties of both the drug and its metabolites have now been studied in the presence of the two main transport proteins of human plasma, i.e., serum albumin (HSA) and α1-acid glycoprotein (HAG) upon UVA light excitation. In general, the observed photobehavior was strongly affected by the confined environment provided by the protein. Thus, GFT-M1 (which exhibits the highest phototoxicity) showed the highest fluorescence yield arising from long-lived HSA-bound phenolate-like excited species. Conversely, locally excited (LE) states were formed within HAG, resulting in lower fluorescence yields. The reserve was true for GFT-M2, which despite being also a phenol, led mainly to formation of LE states within HSA, and phenolate-like species (with a minor contribution of LE) inside HAG. Finally, the parent drug GFT, which is known to form LE states within HSA, exhibited a parallel behavior in the two proteins. In addition, determination of the association constants by both absorption and emission spectroscopy revealed that the two metabolites bind stronger to HSA than the parent drug, whereas smaller differences were observed for HAG. This was further confirmed by studying the competing interactions between GFT or its metabolites with the two proteins using fluorescence measurements. These above experimental findings were satisfactorily correlated with the results obtained by means of molecular dynamics (MD) simulations, which revealed the high affinity binding sites, the strength of interactions and the involved amino acid residues. In general, the differences observed in the photobehavior of the drug and its two photoactive metabolites in protein media are consistent with their relative photosensitizing potentials.
Ricinodendron heudelotii (Euphorbiaceae) seed oil prevents DMBA-induced breast cancer under menopause-like conditions in Wistar rats
Authors: Zingué Stéphane , Tchoupang Edwige Nana , Madji Linda Takou , Pehuie Fomat Boris Hugor , Mafogang Borelle , Njamen Dieudonné , Mendimi Joseph Marie Nkodo
Published: May 2024

Despite efforts, breast cancer remains associated with a high incidence and mortality rate. Ricinodendron heudelotii also known as “Njansang,” is a plant used for cancer treatment. While several reports on the anticancer potential of its leaves exist, little is known about its seed oil. This study aimed to evaluate the in vitro and in vivo anti-breast cancer activity of “Njansang” seed oil. The inhibitory effect of “Njansang” seed oil was determined using MTT and CCK-8 dye reduction assays. Breast cancer was induced with DMBA and promoted with E2V (1 mg/kg) for 4 weeks in ovariectomized rats (menopausal condition). Evaluated parameters included tumor incidence, tumor mass and volume, histopathology, breast cancer biomarker CA 15–3, antioxidant status (CAT, GSH, MDA, NO, SOD), TNF-α and INFγ levels, lipid profile (total cholesterol, LDL-cholesterol, triglycerides and HDL-cholesterol), as well as toxicity parameters (ALT, AST, creatinine). “Njansang” oil significantly reduced the growth of ER+ (MCF-7) and triple negative (MDA-MB 231) adenocarcinoma cells in vitro as well as tumor incidence, tumor mass and CA 15–3 levels in vivo. It exhibited antioxidant activity, characterized by an increase in SOD and catalase activities, GSH levels and decreased MDA levels compared to the DMBA group. TNF-α and INF-γ levels were reduced following oil treatment, while total cholesterol, LDL-cholesterol and triglyceride levels were reduced. The aforementioned findings confirm the protective effects of “Njansang” oil on induced breast cancer in ovariectomized rats.
Crucial and fragile: a multi-methods and multi-disciplinary study of cooperation in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Rotondi Valentina , Babazadeh Masiar , Landolfi Giuseppe , Luciani Marghertia , Uccella Laura , Dell'Oca Samuele , Rosselli Michel , Botturi Luca , Caiata Zufferey Maria
Published: May 2024

In addressing global pandemics, robust cooperation across nations, institutions, and individuals is paramount. However, navigating the complexities of individual versus collective interests, diverse group objectives, and varying societal norms and cultures makes fostering such cooperation challenging. This research delves deep into the dynamics of interpersonal cooperation during the COVID-19 pandemic in Canton Ticino, Switzerland, using an integrative approach that combines qualitative and experimental methodologies. Through a series of retrospective interviews and a lab-in-the-field experiment, we gained insights into the cooperation patterns of healthcare and manufacturing workers. Within healthcare, professionals grappled with escalating emergencies and deteriorating work conditions, resisting the “new normalcy” ushered in by the pandemic. Meanwhile, manufacturing workers adapted to the altered landscape, leveraging smart working strategies to carve out a fresh professional paradigm amidst novel challenges and opportunities. Across these contrasting narratives, the centrality of individual, institutional, and interpersonal factors in galvanizing cooperation was evident. Key drivers like established relational dynamics, mutual dependencies, and proactive leadership were particularly salient. Our experimental findings further reinforced some of these qualitative insights, underscoring the pivotal role of recognition and the detrimental effects of uncertainty on cooperative behaviors. While contextual and sample-related constraints exist, this study illuminates vital facets of cooperation during crises and lays the groundwork for future explorations into cooperative decision-making.
Live biotherapeutic products: a capstone for prevention of recurrent Clostridiodes difficile infection
Authors: Sehgal Kanika , Feuerstadt Paul
Published: May 2024

Clostridiodes difficile infection (CDI) continues to be one of the leading causes of healthcare-acquired diarrhea and infections, and recurrence is the biggest challenge in its management. As technology and research have led to a better understanding of the pathophysiology of C. difficile, we have come to appreciate the role that the gastrointestinal microbiota plays in infection onset and the prevention of recurrence. The gut microbiota is disrupted in those with CDI, which allows further propagation of the infection leading to recurrence, if the microbiota deficiency is unable to regrow itself. While antimicrobial therapy is necessary for treatment of any CDI, these therapeutics do not address the underlying disturbance of microbiota. Microbial remodulation therapies have been developed supplementing the microbiota deficiency that exists after the standard of care antimicrobial resulting in a reduction of recurrence. Fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) was the initial attempt for this type of therapeutic and proved to be safe and effective, however never achieved FDA approval. In light of this, live biotherapeutic products (LBPs) were developed by pharmaceutical companies through a more standardized and regulated process. These products are safe and efficacious in reducing CDI recurrence when given after a standard of care antimicrobial, eventually leading to FDA approval of two products that can now be used widely in clinical practice.
The potential contribution of end-of-life fishing nets, lines and ropes to a circular economy: the Namibian perspective
Authors: Erasmus Victoria Ndinelago , Johannes Fillemon Nadhipite , Amutenya Nangula , James Neil A.
Published: May 2024

Using data collected through survey questionnaires with fleet managers of 16 (61.5%) Namibian fishing companies, we explored the current practices, challenges, and opportunities in promoting Circular Economy (CE) in the context of End-Of-Life (EOL) fishing gear. Most fishing companies (56.2%) have been in operation for more than 25 years. A majority of fishing companies (62.5%) are involved in demersal trawling, mostly targeting hake (Merluccius species). Survey findings reveal that the companies import fishing gear mostly in a semi – complete format (50.0%). The current durability of fishing nets and lines/ropes is about 3 and 2 years respectively, highlighting a continuous generation of fishing gear waste. We estimated (that) approximately 104 tons of EOL fishing gear, lines/twine and ropes (are) generated annually by the Namibian fishing industry, however about 10% of some parts of the EOL fishing gear are recovered and reused. None of the fishing companies recycle EOL fishing gear, which is mostly attributed to a lack of recycling facilities. Current standard practices of EOL fishing nets, lines and ropes management include selling to employees, donating to other institutions, or disposal at dumping sites. Although some of the EOL fishing nets, lines and ropes are sold at open markets, they are not converted into value-added products, thus they are not fully utilized to significantly contribute to the CE. We recommend the implementation of circular practices such as converting EOL fishing nets, lines and ropes into value-added products such as clothing, shoes, and accessories, i.e., sunglasses, thereby reducing environmental pollution, minimising energy usage, and promoting sustainable production and consumption.
Effect of thoracolumbar fascia injury on reported outcomes after percutaneous vertebroplasty
Authors: Yang Songbo , Tang Jie , Yang Zhaoyi , Jin Hongju , Wang Qinglei , Wang Huiming
Published: May 2024

Purpose

Thoracolumbar fascia injury is often associated with poor early pain relief after percutaneous vertebroplasty (PVP). This study will evaluate the effects of thoracolumbar fascia injury on early pain relief and time to get out of bed after PVP.

Methods

A total of 132 patients treated with PVP for osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures (OVCF) were included and divided into injured group (52 cases) and non-injured group (80 cases) according to the existence of thoracolumbar fascia injury. Before surgery, 1 day, 3 days, 1 week, 1 month, and 3 months after surgery, and at the last follow-up, the primary patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) were the visual analogue scale (VAS) of pain while rolling over and standing, and the secondary PROMs was the Oswestry disability index (ODI). Meanwhile, the achieved rate of minimal clinically important differences (MCID) and patient acceptable symptom states (PASS) of the above measures in both groups was evaluated at the last follow-up.

Results

Except for the postoperative 3 months and the last follow-up, there were statistically significant differences in VAS-standing and ODI between the two groups at other time points after surgery (P < 0.05), and the non-injured group was significantly better than the injured group. At the last follow-up, there was no statistically significant difference in the MCID and PASS achievement rates of the above measures between the two groups (P > 0.05). In addition, the proportion of patients who got out of bed 1 and 3 days after surgery in the non-injury group was significantly higher than that in the injury group (P = 0.000 for both).

Conclusion

Thoracolumbar fascia injury significantly affected early pain relief and extended time of getting out of bed after PVP. Attention should be paid to preoperative evaluation of thoracolumbar fascial injury in order to better predict the postoperative efficacy of PVP.
Fault Location Method Based on Dynamic Operation and Maintenance Map and Common Alarm Points Analysis
Authors: Wu Sheng , Guan Jihong
Published: May 2024

Under a distributed information system, the scale of various operational components such as applications, operating systems, databases, servers, and networks is immense, with intricate access relationships. The silo effect of each professional is prominent, and the linkage mechanism is insufficient, making it difficult to locate the infrastructure components that cause exceptions under a particular application. Current research only plays a role in local scenarios, and its accuracy and generalization are still very limited. This paper proposes a novel fault location method based on dynamic operation maps and alarm common point analysis. During the fault period, various alarm entities are associated with dynamic operation maps, and alarm common points are obtained based on graph search addressing methods, covering deployment relationship common points, connection common points (physical and logical), and access flow common points. This method, compared with knowledge graph approaches, eliminates the complex process of knowledge graph construction, making it more concise and efficient. Furthermore, in contrast to indicator correlation analysis methods, this approach supplements with configuration correlation information, resulting in more precise positioning. Through practical validation, its fault hit rate exceeds 82%, which is significantly better than the existing main methods.
Online Prediction Method of Transmission Line Icing Based on Robust Seasonal Decomposition of Time Series and Bilinear Temporal–Spectral Fusion and Improved Beluga Whale Optimization Algorithm–Least Squares Support Vector Regression
Authors: Li Qiang , Liao Xiao , Cui Wei , Wang Ying , Cao Hui , Zhong Xianjing
Published: May 2024

Due to the prevalent challenges of inadequate accuracy, unstandardized parameters, and suboptimal efficiency with regard to icing prediction, this study introduces an innovative online method for icing prediction based on Robust STL–BTSF and IBWO–LSSVR. Firstly, this study adopts the Robust Seasonal Decomposition of Time Series and Bilinear Temporal–Spectral Fusion (Robust STL–BTSF) approach, which is demonstrably effective for short-term and limited sample data preprocessing. Subsequently, injecting a multi-faceted enhancement approach to the Beluga Whale Optimization algorithm (BWO), which integrates a nonlinear balancing factor, a population optimization strategy, a whale fall mechanism, and an ascendant elite learning scheme. Then, using the Improved BWO (IBWO) above to optimize the key hyperparameters of Least Squares Support Vector Regression (LSSVR), a superior offline predictive part is constructed based on this approach. In addition, an Incremental Online Learning algorithm (IOL) is imported. Integrating the two parts, the advanced online icing prediction model for transmission lines is built. Finally, simulations based on actual icing data unequivocally demonstrate that the proposed method markedly enhances both the accuracy and speed of predictions, thereby presenting a sophisticated solution for the icing prediction on the transmission lines.
A Novel Drone Design Based on a Reconfigurable Unmanned Aerial Vehicle for Wildfire Management
Authors: Perikleous Dimitris , Koustas George , Velanas Spyros , Margariti Katerina , Velanas Pantelis , Gonzalez-Aguilera Diego
Published: May 2024

Our study introduces a new approach, leveraging robotics technology and remote sensing for multifaceted applications in forest and wildfire management. Presented in this paper is PULSAR, an innovative UAV with reconfigurable capabilities, able of operating as a quadcopter, a co-axial quadcopter, and a standalone octocopter. Tailored to diverse operational requirements, PULSAR accommodates multiple payloads, showcasing its adaptability and versatility. This paper meticulously details material selection and design methods, encompassing both initial and detailed design, while the electronics design section seamlessly integrates essential avionic components. The 3D drone layout design, accomplished using SOLIDWORKS, enhances understanding by showcasing all three different configurations of PULSAR’s structure. Serving a dual purpose, this study highlights UAV applications in forest and wildfire management, particularly in detailed forest mapping, edge computing, and cartographic product generation, as well as detection and tracking of elements, illustrating how a UAV can be a valuable tool. Following the analysis of applications, this paper presents the selection and integration of payloads onto the UAV. Simultaneously, each of the three distinct UAV configurations is matched with a specific forest application, ensuring optimal performance and efficiency. Lastly, computational validation of the UAV’s main components’ structural integrity is achieved through finite element analysis (FEA), affirming the absence of issues regarding stress and displacement. In conclusion, this research underscores the efficacy of PULSAR, marking a significant leap forward in applying robotics technology for wildfire science.
Well-Being and Perfectionism: Assessing the Mediational Role of Self-Compassion in Emerging Adults
Authors: Benedetto Loredana , Macidonio Stefania , Ingrassia Massimo
Published: May 2024

The study explores how different dimensions of perfectionism influence psychological well-being (PWB) in emerging adults. Literature has deepened the relationships between maladaptive perfectionism (e.g., excessive self-criticism, perceived discrepancy from the standards) and low PWB. Less is known about whether and how adaptive perfectionism (e.g., pursuing personal standards) relates to PWB. Secondly, the study has investigated whether self-compassion (i.e., self-benevolence, seeing personal imperfections as a common condition) may mediate the relationships between adaptive/maladaptive perfectionism and PWB. Participants (N = 217, 18–35 y. o.) completed self-report questionnaires measuring: adaptive/maladaptive perfectionism (Almost Perfect Scale-Revised, APS-R: high standards and order/discrepancy, respectively), PWB, and self-compassion (SCS). Adaptive perfectionism was associated with PWB, particularly a higher presence of purpose in life, environmental mastery, self-acceptance, and personal growth. Conversely, discrepancy resulted in the most robust predictor of low PWB (β = −0.68), followed by high standards with a positive direction (β = 0.23; Rc2 = 0.514, p < 0.001). A strong negative association emerged between discrepancy and SCS (r = −0.67, p < 0.001). A mediation analysis shows that self-compassion has an indirect effect, reducing the strength of the relationship between discrepancy and low PWB. Results suggest focusing on self-compassion as a buffer factor that reduces the negative impact of maladaptive perfectionism on psychological well-being. Implications for education and health psychology are discussed.
Analysis of Formative and Evaluative Activities on Statistical Graphs in Textbooks for Chilean Rural Multigrade Education
Authors: Bustamante-Valdés Matías , Díaz-Levicoy Danilo , Alarcón-Bustamante Eduardo
Published: May 2024

The aim of this paper is to analyze the formative and evaluative activities involving statistical graphs in the new textbooks for Chilean rural multigrade education. The methodology is qualitative, at a descriptive level and uses the content analysis technique. The sample is made up of the six primary education textbooks distributed by the Ministry of Education for rural multigrade schools. The results show the predominance of the bar chart, semiotic level 3, the task of calculating and the personal context in both types of activities, although with respect to the reading level, it is evident that level 4 predominates in the formative activities and level 2 in the evaluative ones. According to the results, it is recommended to incorporate graphs proposed by the curricular guidelines of the Ministry of Education, which are absent in textbooks as well as to include evaluative activities that require reflection on the nature of the data, context, representation and conclusions obtained from them.
Inertial Propulsion Devices: A Review
Authors: Provatidis Christopher G.
Published: May 2024

Google Scholar produces about 278 hits for the term “inertial propulsion”. If patents are also included, the number of hits increases to 536. This paper discusses, in a critical way, some characteristic aspects of this controversial topic. The review starts with the halteres of athletes in the Olympic games of ancient times and then continues with some typical devices which have been developed and/or patented from the second quarter of the twentieth century to the present day.
Thermal Tolerance of Larval Flannelmouth Sucker Catostomus latipinnis Acclimated to Three Temperatures
Authors: Riepe Tawni B. , Hooley-Underwood Zachary E. , Johnson Megan
Published: May 2024

As water temperatures rise in streams due to global temperature variations, dams, and increased water usage, native fish species face uncertain futures. Our study defines the thermal limits of flannelmouth sucker larvae. By raising sucker eggs at three acclimation temperatures (11 °C, 16 °C, and 22 °C), we defined ideal conditions for larval survival and the temperature tolerance range using critical thermal maximum (CTMax) and minimum (CTMin) trials. Larvae survived best at 16 °C. Within our three acclimation temperatures, our data suggest that larvae can survive static temperatures between 6.9 °C and 26.4 °C. Beyond an upper temperature of 34.8 °C and a lower temperature of 6.3 °C, these fish may fail to adapt. While flannelmouth suckers withstand high temperatures, even small temperature decreases prove detrimental. By defining the temperature limits of the flannelmouth sucker, we can make informed management decisions to preserve the populations of this desert fish.
Physical and Numerical Experimentation of Water Droplet Collision on a Wall: A Comparison between PLIC and HRIC Schemes for the VOF Transport Equation with High-Speed Imaging
Authors: de Lima Bruno Silva , Sommerfeld Martin , de Souza Francisco José
Published: May 2024

Liquid films are often found in engineering applications with thicknesses ranging from micrometer scales to large scales with a wide range of applications. To optimize such systems, researchers have dedicated themselves to the development of new techniques. To further contribute to this development, the objective of this work is to present the results of the collision of water droplets on a wall by means of experimentation and numerical simulations. For physical experimentation, an injector is used to generate a chain of water droplets that collide with the opposite wall, forming a liquid film. Images of the droplets were obtained using two high-speed recording cameras. The results for different droplet sizes and impact angles are presented and the relationship between the momentum parameter and non-dimensional pool size was established. Modeling such processes is a common challenge in engineering, with different techniques having their advantages and limitations. The simulations in this work were run using the volume of fluid method, which consists of solving a transport equation for the volume fraction of each considered fluid. A correlation was found between the surface tension to momentum transport ratio, Scd, and the non-dimensional pool size for different droplet sizes and impact angles. Regions where partial depositions were most likely to occur were found via physical experiments.
Critical Exponents and Universality for Fractal Time Processes above the Upper Critical Dimensionality
Authors: Zeng Shaolong , Hu Yangfan , Tan Shijing , Wang Biao
Published: May 2024

We study the critical behaviors of systems undergoing fractal time processes above the upper critical dimension. We derive a set of novel critical exponents, irrespective of the order of the fractional time derivative or the particular form of interaction in the Hamiltonian. For fractal time processes, we not only discover new universality classes with a dimensional constant but also decompose the dangerous irrelevant variables to obtain corrections for critical dynamic behavior and static critical properties. This contrasts with the traditional theory of critical phenomena, which posits that static critical exponents are unrelated to the dynamical processes. Simulations of the Landau–Ginzburg model for fractal time processes and the Ising model with temporal long-range interactions both show good agreement with our set of critical exponents, verifying its universality. The discovery of this new universality class provides a method for examining whether a system is undergoing a fractal time process near the critical point.
Distributed Control for Non-Cooperative Systems Governed by Time-Fractional Hyperbolic Operators
Authors: Serag Hassan M. , Almoneef Areej A. , El-Badawy Mahmoud , Hyder Abd-Allah
Published: May 2024

This paper studies distributed optimal control for non-cooperative systems involving time-fractional hyperbolic operators. Through the application of the Lax–Milgram theorem, we confirm the existence and uniqueness of weak solutions. Central to our approach is the utilization of the linear quadratic cost functional, which is meticulously crafted to encapsulate the interplay between the system’s state and control variables. This functional serves as a pivotal tool in imposing constraints on the dynamic system under consideration, facilitating a nuanced understanding of its controllability. Using the Euler–Lagrange first-order optimality conditions with an adjoint problem defined by means of the right-time fractional derivative in the Caputo sense, we obtain an optimality system for the optimal control. Finally, some examples are analyzed.