bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Establishment and Evaluation of Rat Portal Vein Thrombosis Model
Authors: Tian Rui yuan , Wei Chao , Li Yong 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Objective
This study aims to assess the efficacy of developing a rat portal vein thrombosis (PVT) model by combining intermittent ligation with clamp insertion in the portal vein.
Methods
SD rats were randomly divided into a model group and a blank control group. The model group was subjected to portal vein thrombosis induction using intermittent ligation combined with clamp placement, while the blank control group underwent only portal vein dissection after laparotomy. A liver color Doppler ultrasound was performed to validate the occurrence of portal vein thrombosis after the one-week modeling procedure. Following this, the model group was sub-grouped into recovery and model control groups. A laparotomy was performed to obtain the portal vein for examination for these subgroups. On the other hand, the model recovery group remained elevated for an additional 3 weeks before portal vein collection. In the pathological examination, each portal vein tissue was stained with Hematoxylin and Eosin staining, Masson, and Van Gieson staining.
Results
One week following surgery, an ultrasound examination showed stable (90%) thrombus formation in the portal vein of the model group. The histopathological emanation of the model control and model recovery groups revealed the existence of a thrombus in the portal vein, vascular endothelium injury, media thickening due to edema, and collagen fiber adhesion. The blank control group exhibited no thrombus formation in the portal vein and remained intact in vascular structure. Rats in the model recovery group showed stable PVT and non-fatal survival at four weeks postoperatively.
Conclusion
In this study, an effective and viable portal vein thrombosis rat model has successfully developed via intermittent ligation combined with clamp insertion. The minimal 4-week survival duration of rats in the PVT model provides a temporal base for future studies.
Another Common Genetic Ataxia in South Korea: Spinocerebellar ataxia 36
Authors: Jang Ja-Hyun , Ahn Jong Hyeon , Lee Seungbok , Moon Jangsup , Han Yoojung , Chang Hyeshik , Youn Jinyoung , Cho Jin Whan 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Spinocerebellar ataxias (SCAs) represent a diverse group of neurodegenerative disorders characterized by progressive cerebellar ataxia. Diagnostic laboratories in South Korea typically focus on testing for common SCA subtypes, leaving the prevalence of rare SCAs uncertain. This study aimed to explore the prevalence of rare SCA loci, including SCA10, 12, 31, and 36 utilizing molecular techniques including long-read sequencing (LRS). Patients were selected from ataxia cohorts who remained undiagnosed despite testing for common genetic ataxias in Korean (SCA1, 2, 3, 6, 7, 8 17, and dentatorubral-pallidoluysian atrophy), as well as unselected ataxia patients referred for testing common SCAs. Screening for expanded alleles associated with SCA10, 12, 31, and 36 involved techniques such as allele-length PCR, repeat-primed PCR, followed by confirmation through LRS. Among 78 patients from 67 families with undiagnosed cerebellar ataxia despite extensive genetic testing, expanded alleles of SCA36 were identified in 8 families (11.9%) with no detection of SCA10, 12, or 31 alleles. The majority of SCA36 expansions were confirmed by LRS. Furthermore, unselected ataxia patients showed a prevalence of 1.0% for SCA36. Korean SCA36 patients exhibited clinical characteristics similar to global reports, with a higher incidence of hyperreflexia. The study underscores the prevalence of SCA36 in South Korea and emphasizes the potential of LRS as a diagnostic tool for this condition. Integrating LRS into diagnostic protocol could enhance diagnostic efficacy, particularly in populations with a high prevalence of SCA36 like South Korea. Further research is necessary to standardize LRS for routine clinical application.
The association of dry eye disease signs and symptoms with anxiety and depression: An observational study
Authors: Wang Yiren , Jiang Xiaodan , Li Jiaxi , Li Xuemin 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Purpose
This study aimed to determine the relationship between dry eye-related symptoms and signs with anxiety and depression.
Methods
In this observational study, we recruited 63 volunteers, including 51 patients with dry eye disease (DED) and 12 healthy volunteers. Infrared images of the meibomian gland and corneal nerve layer analysis of all patients were assessed. Additionally, the patients completed Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) questionnaire, Ocular Surface Disease Index (OSDI), and dry eye symptom questionnaire.
Results
HADS-anxiety and HADS-depression scores in the DED group were significantly higher than those in the control group (t = 5.846, P \(<\) 0.001, and t = 4.006, P \(<\) 0.001, respectively). HADS-anxiety and HADS-depression was significantly correlated with DED symptoms (P < 0.05). There was a significant positive correlation between the OSDI and HADS (P < 0.001). There was a significant correlation between HADS-anxiety and mebomian gland area (r = -0.426, P < 0.001) and corneal nerve density (r = -0.345, P < 0.001); HADS-depression was found to be correlated with mebomian gland area (r = -0.517, P < 0.001) and corneal nerve density (r = -0.242, P = 0.016). The predictive equation for HADS-anxiety is as follows: HADS-anxiety = 0.09989*OSDI + -0.00013*CND + -22.54*MGA + 7.128 (P < 0.0001). The predictive equation for HADS-depression is as follows: HADS-depression = 0.06743*OSDI + -18.01*MGA + 5.019 (P < 0.0001).
Conclusion
Anxiety and depression were significantly correlated with OSDI, CND and MGA in patients with DED. Furthermore, OSDI, CND and MGA have a relatively value for HADS-anxiety and HADS-depression.
Thriving on half: low nutritional demand in Stephanopodium engleri involves adjustments in photosynthetic apparatus functionality
Authors: Vieira Evandro Alves , Neto Luiz Palhares , Filgueira Joana Serrão , Salles Marina Ludmila Conor , Valadares Rafael , Ramos Silvio , Gastauer markus , Caldeira Cecilio Frois 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Background
Cultivating threatened plant species is vital for conservation, safeguarding against extinction by ensuring propagation and maintaining genetic diversity. In this study, we conducted an integrative morphological, physiological, and quantitative proteomic analysis of Stephanopodium engleri plants grown under different substrates and nutritional sources. Stephanopodium engleri is an endangered and range-restricted species endemic to the Quadrilátero Ferrífero region, a historical hub for mining activities in Brazil. Seedlings of S. engleri were cultivated in three different substrates: organic substrate (Carolina Soil® - CS), dystrophic soil (DS), and a mixture of both substrates (1:1). Additionally, we evaluated nutrient availability levels, including complete fertilization and half of the nutrients in the DS, as well as treatments with complete fertilization excluding nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), potassium (K), and micronutrients.
Results
Different nutritional sources resulted in changes in the growth of S. engleri, with nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and micronutrients identified as the most limiting nutrients. The species exhibited maximum growth with half of the applied fertilization, suggesting a low nutritional requirement. The highest growth was strongly related to nutritional availability, coupled with adjustments in the photosynthetic apparatus and protein regulation, with no significant differences in morpho-anatomical traits. The most representative proteins displayed a diverse array of metabolic functions, particularly related to iron (Fe) and zinc (Zn) homeostasis, participation in photosynthesis and energy pathways, reactive oxygen species (ROS) signaling, and the preservation of functional structures.
Conclusions
Our findings are crucial to support field planting, as adequate fertilization is essential to produce high-quality seedlings, thereby facilitating plans to reintroduce the species into its native environment. Additionally, our results reveal insights into S. engleri physiology and adaptations. Our data can further support management and conservation plans through the reinforcement of natural populations, introduction of new populations, maintenance of germplasm banks, and living collections.
Antimalarial efficacy of Duttaphrynus melanostictus skin extract via inhibition of Plasmodium falciparum Na+/H+ ATPase
Authors: Bagwe Akshay Dilip , D’Souza Roshan Clarence , Sharma Bharatbhushan B. 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Malaria remains a major health issue worldwide that affects many people, particularly in developing nations. Since, the malarial parasite has developed resistance against nearly every antimalarial drug now in use, it is imperative to search for novel antimalarial medications. Toxins produced by skin glands of toads have been shown to possess antiparasitic properties against a variety of protozoan parasites because of the bufadienolides they contain. Even though several studies have been conducted to show that toad skin secretions have antimalarial properties, very little information is known about the precise mechanism by which they work against Plasmodium infection. Thus, the goal of this study was to evaluate the antiplasmodial activity of crude skin extracts from Common Asian Toads, Duttaphrynus melanostictus, of different sizes and illustrate how they work against Plasmodium falciparum 3D7 cells. The findings demonstrated a negative correlation between the toad size and percent yield of the extracts. HPTLC and UPLC-MS/MS analysis of the extracts exhibited varied composition of bufadienolides depending on the size of the animal. The extract obtained from small toads containing resibufagin and marinobufagin lactate demonstrated highest antiplasmodial activity and showed lowest cytotoxicity on peripheral blood mononuclear cells. It was discovered that the extract was effective against the trophozoite stage of the parasite. The extract was reported to inhibit Na+/H+ ATPase of Plasmodium by binding to sodium-enzyme complex at ATP binding site. The study offers baseline data that can be used to assess the antimalarial potential of individual components in the skin extract derived from small toads.
Research on identification method for spatial master data of railroad system
Authors: Zhang Maolin , Shen Tao , Huo Liang , Yang Yaodong , Zhouwen Shiqi 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Railway spatial master data is crucial asset data within the railway system, accurately reflecting the geographic locations and spatial information of core entities within the system, enabling railway companies to make a series of spatial decisions. In view of this, this article proposes a railway spatial master data recognition method based on the rough set-cloud model to identify spatial master data from massive railway data. This method first selects indicators for identification based on the characteristics of spatial data and master data. Then, it determines the weights of the identification indicators based on rough set theory. Next, it uses a cloud model to transform the indicators from qualitative to quantitative, calculate the membership degrees of the indicators, and generate an indicator cloud reflecting the characteristics of the indicators. Finally, by combining membership degrees with indicator weights and prioritizing maximum membership degrees, accurate identification of massive railway data is carried out. This method, compared to traditional recognition approaches, eliminates the subjective bias that expert scoring may introduce. It also increases the number of recognition indicators, enhancing accuracy and specificity in identification. The results indicate that the calculation method is consistent with the expected results, demonstrating the effectiveness and reliability of the method in the field of railway spatial master data identification.
Analyzing Sedimentation Patterns in the Naumure Multipurpose Project (NMP) Reservoir using 1D HEC- RAS Modeling
Authors: Dahal Vishan , Kunwar Subash , Bhandari Shishir , Chaudhary Subash , Gautam Saurab , Bhatt Nabin , Regmi Ram Krishna 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Naumure Multipurpose Project (NMP) featuring a 169 m high Concrete Face Rock Filled Dam (CFRD) is the proposed reservoir project in the West Rapti River with an installed capacity of 218.34 MW. Most of the rivers in Nepal carry significant sediment loads that will consequently catalyze reservoir sedimentation. This phenomenon prevails as the primary factor in reducing reservoirs useful life, making ineffective for both flood control and hydroelectricity generation. Ultimately, such process of sedimentation has adverse impacts on projects economic feasibility and long-term sustainability. Therefore, the objective of this research was to examine the expected sediment deposition pattern in the NMP reservoir throughout its operational period by employing 1D HEC-RAS model to simulate the sedimentation process. The model was simulated for 10, 20, 30, 40 and 50 years. Yang’s equation as a sediment transport function and Toffaleti as a fall velocity method were best suited for the river reach. The delta deposition was formed between 11 km to 22 km upstream of the dam region in the Jhimruk river, with the sediment deposition depth reaching peaks of about 23 m, 38 m, 39 m, 41 m and 49 m in 10, 20, 30, 40 and 50 years, respectively. Similarly, the delta deposition was formed between 13 km to 33 km upstream of dam region in the Madi river, with the sediment deposition depth reaching peaks of about 47 m, 62 m, 60 m, 68 m and 75 m in 10, 20, 30, 40 and 50 years respectively. Headcutting of delta deposition occurred between 20 to 30 year due to high flood during low stage of reservoir. Furthermore, the study revealed that about 6.22%, 11.61%, 15.94%, 22.96% and 25.65% of the storage capacity of NMP reservoir will be depleted in 10, 20, 30, 40 and 50 years respectively.
Brief Report: HRV Time Domain Parameters Predict Trauma and Depression Symptom Change in Veterans with PTSD Undergoing Biofeedback
Authors: Schuman Donna L. , Ognyanova Pavleta , Ginsberg J. P. , Moser Debra K. 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Heart rate variability (HRV) is an index of cardiac autonomic function and an objective biomarker for stress and health. Improving HRV through biofeedback has proven effective in reducing symptoms of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and depression in veteran populations. Brief protocols involving fewer sessions can better maximize limited clinic resources; however, there is a dearth of knowledge on the number of clinical sessions needed to significantly reduce trauma and depression symptoms. We conducted a series of linear regression models using baseline, post-intervention, and follow-up data from intervention group participants (N = 18) who engaged in a pilot waitlist-controlled study testing the efficacy of a 3-session mobile app-adapted HRV biofeedback intervention for veterans with PTSD. Based on Nunan et al.’s (2010) short-term norms, we found that pre-intervention RMSSD in the normal range significantly predicted PTSD and depression symptom improvement. Findings suggest the utility of baseline RMSSD as a useful metric for predicting HRV biofeedback treatment outcomes for veterans with PTSD and comorbid depression. Those with below-normal baseline RMSSD may likely need additional sessions to show clinically meaningful symptom improvement.
Knowledge, attitude and perception of pregnant women toward prenatal ultrasound at the Tertiary Care Hospital of Quetta, Pakistan.
Authors: Akhtar Jahanzeb , Najeeb Alishba , Khan Nosherwan , Rizwan Danish , Zaman Muhammad Akhtar 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Background Prenatal ultrasound has been an integral part of routine prenatal care for decades and is a noninvasive and widely accessible method for assessing fetal development. Ultrasound allows visualization of the fetus and the detection of structural anomalies, contributing to comprehensive prenatal care. Therefore, this study aims to determine pregnant women’s knowledge, attitude, and perception towards prenatal ultrasound in the tertiary care hospital of Quetta, Pakistan. Methods This observational, cross-sectional study was conducted at Bolan Medical Complex Hospital, Quetta, from January 2024 to April 2024. A total of 614 pregnant women were interviewed by a non-probability convenient sampling technique. Knowledge, attitude and perception of the participants were assessed by a questionnaire. The data was then analyzed by SPSS ver. 21. Results This study revealed notable demographic disparities, such as a significant portion (58.6%) of pregnant women lacking formal education, and 48.4% of pregnant women reported a history of congenital anomalies. A substantial proportion (52.4%) exhibited poor knowledge, while 47.2% displayed a positive attitude toward prenatal ultrasound. However, a considerable percentage (56.4%) demonstrated poor perception. Cross-tabulation analyses revealed significant associations between demographic factors and knowledge, attitudes, and perceptions, highlighting the influential role of education and previous experiences, with all associations having a p value < 0.001. Conclusion This study highlights pregnant women's negative perceptions and poor attitudes toward prenatal ultrasound and reveals notable knowledge gaps despite generally positive awareness levels and widespread prior ultrasound use. These findings can help in developing targeted interventions to enhance knowledge in the form of counselors, which
Assessment of Drought Projections using the Integrated Fuzzy Analytical Hierarchy Process
Authors: Kumar Prem , Shah Syed Feroz , Kharti Shoaib Ahmed , Uqaili Mohammad Aslam , Mirjat Nayyar Hussain , Kumar Laveet 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Effective mitigation planning has become essential considering the complexity and ambiguity of the drought. The Fuzzy analytical hierarchy process (Fuzzy-AHP) and a comparison matrix method are the key elements of this research's framework for planning drought mitigation for the Tharparkar desert region in Pakistan. Fuzzy-AHP, an efficient decision-making tool, offers systematic evaluation based on survey questionnaire criteria. It was created through a literature review and has received feedback from 40 various stakeholders. The identification of the criteria, the fuzzy-AHP model, consistency analysis, weight aggregation, assessment of the alternatives, ranking, and selection are the crucial steps in the technique suggested by this study. This approach, which offers a reliable and flexible framework for planning drought mitigation, incorporates the Fuzzy-AHP model and a comparison matrix. As it can handle confusing and subjective inputs, decision-makers can use it to identify drought situations, evaluate them, and select the best drought mitigation strategies. This research serves to improve the efficacy of drought mitigation planning processes across a range of sectors by offering a thorough and flexible decision-support tool.
Rubella Immunity Gap: A Cross-sectional study on Spatial Distribution, Correlates and Predictors among Women of Reproductive Age, Southwest Nigeria
Authors: KA Durowade , OI Musa , MA Adeniyi , TA Sanni , AG Salaudeen , ST Suleiman , OR Ilori , DB Parakoyi , Durowade KA. 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Background:Rubella occurs worldwide and it is a leading cause of preventable congenital abnormalities. Paucity of data exists on the national morbidity burden of rubella infection, particularly among women of reproductive age in Nigeria. Added to this is the absent immunization policy on rubella vaccination in Nigeria.Methods:A community-based cross-sectional survey for rubella IgG (Immunoglobulin G) antibodies among women of child-bearing age in Ekiti State. Multi-stage sampling technique was used for the selection of respondents. Data was collected quantitatively using interviewer-administered semi-structured questionnaire. Blood sample was collected for qualitative assay of rubella IgG from each respondent. Also, there was recording of GPS (Global Positioning System) co-ordinates of sampled households. Data entry and analysis was through the use of SPSS 23 and level of statistical significance was predetermined at a p-value of < 0.05.Result:The mean age of the women was 30.5±7.9 years and 43.2% of them were in the age group 25-34 years. There was wide spread immunity gap as majority of the respondents, 482 (84.1%) had negative IgG serology which cuts across both rural and urban communities in the spatial map. Level of education, parity, number in households and prior vaccination were associated with rubella immunity (p<0.05). Higher Levels of education, increase number in households and urban community were significantly predictive of rubella immunity.Conclusion:There is wide immunity gap which cuts across both rural and urban areas. To reduce the wide spread immunity gap, increase herd immunity, the Federal Government of Nigeria needs to introduce rubella vaccination in the National Immunization.
A Distributed Control Strategy for Groups of Robots with Application in Flocking
Authors: Li Xiang , Wang Chuanchuan , Li Chunyan 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

This paper presents a distributed control strategy, named Triangle Formation (TF) algorithm, for a group of robots. The algorithm is based on a geometric approach and enables three neighboring robots to form an equilateral triangular lattice. The TF algorithm is scalable since it is developed for a large group of robots by using a neighbor selection technique. To achieve obstacle avoidance by group, the algorithm is enhanced further by introducing an artificial physics model. A series of simulation studies have been conducted to observe the performance and the effectiveness of the TF algorithm. These empirical results show that swarm aggregation and flocking in an unknown environment can be realized with the TF algorithm successfully.