bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Screening tool for sarcopenia (SARC-F) predicts unsatisfactory medical treatment of lower urinary tract symptoms in elderly men aged 75 years or older: a preliminary observational study
Authors: Wada Naoki , Hatakeyama Tsubasa , Takagi Haruka , Morishita Shun , Tsunekawa Ryoken , Nagabuchi Masaya , Kitta Takeya , Kakizaki Hidehiro 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Purpose: We investigated the influence of sarcopenia on treatment outcomes in elderly patients receiving medical therapy for lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS).
Methods: We included male patients with LUTS aged ≥75 years who had not changed their medication for 1 year. Current conditions were estimated using IPSS, overactive bladder symptoms score (OABSS), and screening tool for sarcopenia (SARC-F). SARC-F score of ≧4 was defined as sarcopenia.
Results: We included 59 patients in this study, including 16 patients (27.1%) with sarcopenia. IPSS total score, voiding symptom score of IPSS, and IPSS-QOL were significantly higher in the sarcopenia group than the non-sarcopenia group. The non-sarcopenia group had significantly larger PV (40 vs. 20 ml) and higher testosterone levels (497.5 vs. 369 ng/ml) compared with the sarcopenia group. Moderate and severe LUTS (IPSS total ≥8) persisted in 34 patients (57.6%) after medical treatment. Multivariate analysis showed that only SARC-F was a significant factor affecting the IPSS total ≥8 despite medical treatment for 1 year (OR 1.67, 95%CI: 1.13–2.46).
Conclusion: Sarcopenia defined by using SARC-F is a significant factor for unsatisfactory medical treatment of LUTS in elderly men aged ≥75 years.
Insight into the Blood Microbiome of Familial Mediterranean Fever (FMF) Patient: Pilot Study
Authors: El-Bassyouni Hala T. , Mansour Nahla M. , Eldeen Ghada Nour , Elkalla Wagiha S. , Sokkar Mona F. , Lotfy Randa S. , Zarouk Waheba A. 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Objectives
Familial Mediterranean Fever (FMF) is one of the most frequent Mediterranean genetic diseases. It is an autoinflammatory disorder caused by MEFV gene mutations. We investigated the blood microbiome composition in patients with FMF due to genetic disorder with single or double heterozygosity compared to control subjects.
Methods
We analyzed the blood microbiome of 10 FMF patients (5 Heterozygote and 5 double heterozygote) and 10 controls targeting the V3-V4 within 16S ribosomal ribonucleic acid gene by using the next generation sequencing with the Illumina MiSeq platform, bioinformatics and statistic methods.
Results
Compared to the control subjects, significant changes in blood microbiome were detected in FMF patient group. The abundance of families; Lachnospiraceae, Ruminococcaceae, Micrococcaceae, Corynebacteriaceae, Rhodobacteraceae, Clostridiaceae, Camobacteriaceae, and Dermabacteraceae was significantly lower than the control by expressing P value < 0.05.
Conclusions
blood microbiome dysbiosis in FMF revealed the potential correlation of the blood microbiome in such disease clinical course, which will open the door for further research to implement microbiome base in FMF treatment and prevention.
Bilateral Tuberculous Dactylitis of both hand and feet in a female toddler: A Case Report on a Rare Presentation of Skeletal Tuberculosis in children
Authors: Gebrehana Alazar Wogayehu , Munye Gizeyalew , Mekonen Aysheshim Kinde , Mengistu Segenet Bizuneh , Geletaw Teshome , Omar Issac 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Background Even though Tuberculosis is a common disease among children in developing countries, tuberculous dactylitis is an uncommon form of Skeletal tuberculosis specially with involvement of both the hands and feet. Case Presentation A 1 year and 6 months old previously healthy female ethiopian toddler presented to our pediatric outpatient clinic with a 2 month duration of painful multiple swellings over both her hands and feet. The swelling involved the proximal phalanx of left index finger, dorsum of the right hand and dorsum of both feet over the 1st metatarsal bone. Physical examination, radiologic findings Histopathology suggested tuberculous dactylitis. The patient was treated with Anti tuberculosis drugs for 12 months and clinical radiologic examination showed marked improvement and recovery. Conclusion Tubercular dactylitis should always be considered in the differential diagnosis of children from endemic areas presenting with bone and joint pain or swelling. Our experience of 12 months course of Anti TB which is in line with WHO recommendations of treatment of skeletal Tuberculosis, showed excellent outcome.
Anatomy of the uncertainty of satellite vicarious calibration using radiosondes: concepts and preliminary results for microwave radiometric observations
Authors: Cimini Domenico , Barlakas Vasileios , Carminati Fabien , De Angelis Francesco , Paola Francesco Di , Fassò Alessandro , Gallucci Donatello , Gentile Sabrina , Hewison Tim , Larosa Salvatore , Madonna Fabio , Mattioli Vinia , Montopoli Mario , Romano Filomena , Rosoldi Marco , Viggiano Mariassunta , Von Engeln Axel , Ricciardelli Elisabetta 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Calibration of satellite observations is crucial to ensure the quality of retrieved products essential for meteorological and climate applications. Calibration is obtained and monitored through a cascade of stages, including post-launch vicarious calibration/validation activities through comparison with independent reference measurements. Here, the vicarious calibration method using radiative transfer simulations based on reference radiosondes is considered in the framework of the calibration/validation activities for the Microwave Imager (MWI) and the Ice Cloud Imager (ICI) to be launched with the Second Generation of EUMETSAT Polar System. This paper presents an overview of the uncertainty characterization of the vicarious calibration of MWI and ICI using radiosondes as performed within the EUMETSAT-funded VICIRS study.
Federated Learning Incentivize with Privacy-Preserving for IoT in Edge Computing in the Context of B5G
Authors: Jalali Nasir Ahmad , Chen Hongsong 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Federated learning and edge computing have resulted in the broad adoption of internet of Things (IoT) due to their fast reaction times and low connection costs. In general, edge computing requires users to send raw data to a central server for further processing. However, this data frequently contains sensitive information that individuals may not want to disclose. As a result, transferring user data with sensitive information increases the risk of data leakage when various unauthorized devices access it. Integrating federated learning with edge computing improves privacy by creating a consistent deep learning model across devices, eliminating the need for real data transferring but the complexity and heterogeneity of the IoT environment present challenges like privacy, low communication, incentives, and seamless data aggregation. In this work, we concentrate on improving privacy with communication stability and designing incentive mechanisms to motivate more clients to participate in the model training process to enhance the performance and accuracy of data aggregation in a highly trusted environment. As a result, the novelty point is the development of a framework that combined a blockchain with federated edge computing in the context of beyond 5G to address the aforementioned challenges and provide excellent communicative and trusted environment. The study's rigorous evaluation showed that the integration of blockchain and B5G technology significantly improved the overall process of federated edge computing including increased accuracy, prevented loss, and motivated more clients to participate in the training process.
Seismic Retrofitting of RCC Buildings Using Prestressing Techniques
Authors: MESHRAM SANGITA 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Seismic retrofitting to reduce the vulnerability of a structure is a relatively recent concept. Seismic retrofitting of earthquake-prone structures is a major political and social issue today. Failure occurs when structures are unable to withstand seismic impact. To address this issue, seismic retrofitting of reinforced concrete buildings is required. A structure may require strengthening or rehabilitation for a variety of reasons, including a lack of strength (flexure, shear, etc.), stiffness, ductility, and durability.
The primary goal of this research is to better understand the behaviour of structures in various zones, as well as to analyse and design buildings while earthquakes are present. Many existing lifeline structures were evaluated, designed, and detailed in accordance with the recommendations of the codes in use at the time. Such architectures require re-evaluation every ten years. Such constructions usually do not meet current seismic criteria; thus, retrofitting is needed. The design of an RCC beam can be utilized to calculate the needed sections for various moments of resistance. The data book provided will be valuable for engineers designing prestressed concrete beams and retrofitting RCC beams with prestressed concrete. The trend line equation produced from the graph will be useful in estimating the moment of resistance for different seismic zones.
PlanAgent: Embodied Visual-Language Model for Grounded Task planning with Environment Map
Authors: Yue Yuanchang , Yao Fanglong , Liu Youzhi , Liu Nayu , Jin Li , Zhang Zequn , Zhang Daobing , Sun Xian , Fu Kun 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Embodied Intelligence refers to the agent interacting with the environment, perceiving, planning, decision-making, and executing like humans, which is applicable in smart homes, drone inspections, and other domains. Embodied task planning is one of the main tasks of embodied intelligence, which generates detailed step-by-step plans while perceiving the surrounding environment and understanding language instruction. Visual-language models, with powerful multimodal representation capabilities, have been generalized to various tasks. When applied to embodied task planning, it still faces the following two challenges. Firstly, the intricate complexity of the environment leads to difficulties in global environment information modeling. Secondly, frequent turns in task paths result in the dependence on strong spatial reasoning ability. To overcome these challenges, we propose PlanAgent, the first embodied visual-language model for embodied task planning. Specifically, the environment map is employed to model the global environment information. Then we present the environment map encoder to extract task-related information from the environment. Further, to reduce task path planning's dependence on strong spatial reasoning, we introduce the self-posture-aware training strategy to break down long-term spatial reasoning into short-term. We build the EmbodiedPlan-20k dataset for grounded planning in embodied tasks. Our experiments on the dataset demonstrate that PlanAgent outperforms previous methods and all components are effective.
Genome-wide identification of the EIN3/EIL transcription factor family and their responses under abiotic stresses in Alfalfa (Medicago sativa)
Authors: Su Xinru , Wang Juan , Sun Shoujiang , Peng Wenxin , Li Manli , Mao Peisheng , Dou Liru 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Background
Alfalfa (Medicago sativa) is known as the "king of forage" due to its high protein, mineral, carbohydrate, and digestive nutrient content. However, various abiotic stresses inhibit the growth and development of alfalfa, ultimately leading to a decrease in yield and quality. The ethylene-insensitive 3 (EIN3)/ethylene-insensitive 3-like (EIL) transcription factors are core regulators in plant ethylene signaling, playing important roles in plant development and response to abiotic stresses. However, a comprehensive genome-wide analysis of EIN3/EIL genes in alfalfa has not yet been conducted.
Results
In this study, we identified ten MsEIN3/EIL genes from the alfalfa (cv.Zhongmu No.1) genome, which were classified into four clades based on phylogenetic analysis. The motif 1, motif 2, motif 3, motif 4, and motif 9 of the MsEIN3/EIL genes constitute the conserved structural domains. Gene duplication analyses suggest that segmental duplication (SD) is a major driver of the expansion of the MsEIN3/EIL gene family during evolution. The analysis of the cis-acting elements in the promoter of MsEIN3/EIL genes showed their ability to respond to various hormones and stresses. The analysis of tissue expression revealed that group A and group C members were highly expressed in flowers and seeds, while group D members were highly expressed in roots and stems. Furthermore, RNA-Seq analysis demonstrated that the expression of MsEIN3/EIL genes were responsive to ABA treatment and different abiotic stresses (e.g., salt, cold, and drought stress).
Conclusion
This study investigated MsEIN3/EIL genes in alfalfa and identified three candidate MsEIN3/EIL transcription factors involved in the regulation of abiotic stresses. These findings will provide valuable insights into uncovering the molecular mechanisms underlying various stress responses in alfalfa.
Development and application of Whole-herd-Sampling, qPCR-based- Testing, and Precision-Removal methods to Eliminate ASFV in Four Large Swine Herds in China
Authors: Li Xiaowen , Li Peng , Zhang Bingzhou , Wu Weisheng , Li Junxian , Gao Wenchao , Yu Jincheng , Fan Mingyu , Wang Yunzhou , Yu Qiannan , Li Jintao , Zhang Xiaoyang , Liu Qingyuan , Wu Lili , Wang Xinglong , Yan Zhichun 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Since the first ASFV case was reported in China in 2018, the conventional depopulation method to control ASF has proved unwieldy because of its high production intensity and complex trade network. To provide an alternative to conventional stamping out methods, we developed a” Whole-herd-Sampling, qPCR-based-Testing, and Precision-Removal” method by sampling every whole herd sampling and qPCR tests to determine the status of ASFV in herds and using a precision removal of identified sows. By developing and applying these methods, we successfully controlled ASF and eliminated the virus from 4 large swine herds from 2019 to 2020. The time to negative herd (TTNH) was 19, 28, 14, and 1 day from farm 1 to 4, respectively. Retention rates of pigs from farm 1 to farm 4 were 69.7%, 65%, 99.4%, and 99.72%, respectively. We anticipated that this innovative method would be a good alternative to the conventional stamping out method and greatly facilitate the control and eradication of ASFV in China and worldwide.
Evolution of “Live fast, die late” life history strategy in Drosophila melanogaster males
Authors: Shakarad Mallikarjun , Farand Abhishek , Shrivastava Nidhi , Rauhila Neha , Khati Meenakshi , Yadav Abhishek 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

In holometabolus insects, fitness is intricately linked with body size. Large males with high energy reserves often adopt ‘live fast, die young’ life-history strategy to maximize fitness compared to small individuals. However, in promiscuous, iteroparous systems, males that live fast and die late have evolutionary advantage. Using two types of Drosophila melanogaster populations- one that have evolved small size as a response to long term selection for faster development and extended longevity (FLJs) and the other that are large ancestral control populations (JBs), we revisit the (i) disposable soma theory, and (ii) live fast, die early life history strategy hypothesis. Contrary to the two hypotheses, the small FLJ males with significantly reduced energy reserves invested heavily in pre-reproductive traits as indicated by significantly higher courtship duration, number of mounting attempts, and comparable copulation duration to JB males. FLJ males also have comparable lifetime fecundity and realized fitness without compromising on longevity, suggesting that FLJ males are adopting a novel “live fast, die late” life history strategy.
Establishment of an Animal Model for Chronic Renal Injury Induced by Nutcracker Syndrome and Analysis of Potential Mechanisms
Authors: Wu Wensong , Awuti·Aisha Aisha , Chang Fan , Jianghui Zhang , Shuai Tang , Lv Zheng , Chen Fangmin 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Background
Although the conservative treatment duration for Nutcracker Syndrome (NCS) has been recommended by experts, it lacks supporting literature from basic experiments. This study aims to construct an animal model of NCS to investigate the kidney damage under different congestion durations in rats.
Method
We innovatively established a rat model of NCS and relieved renal congestion through secondary surgery, with renal vein reperfusion confirmed by animal ultrasound. Histopathological changes in congested kidneys at 3, 6, and 9 days were evaluated using HE and Masson staining, and the expression of renal injury factors was determined using q-PCR. Additionally, we preliminarily explored the molecular mechanisms of NCS using bioinformatics techniques.
Results
Renal tissue pathology changes were evident with prolonged obstruction time. Compared to the sham-operated group, no apparent fibrosis was observed in the kidneys at 3 days post-congestion, whereas fibrosis was most severe at 9 days post-congestion, with no significant improvement even after blood flow restoration. 6 days post-congestion relief, there was some alleviation of renal fibrosis. q-PCR results indicated a significant reduction in fibrosis markers' expression after 3 or 6 days of renal vein ligation release. Following restoration of blood flow on the 9th day post-congestion, there were no significant changes in fibrosis markers. Five hub genes, including MMP2, CD4, CD44, COL1A1, and FN1, were identified as key genes associated with NCS. We screened 86 compounds related to these hub genes as potential therapeutic drugs for NCS.
Conclusion
By matching the lifespan of rats with human lifespan, we conclude that patients with mild NCS symptoms can receive conservative treatment for six months; if conservative treatment is ineffective, surgical intervention should be considered.
Portal vein variations on routine contrast enhanced computed tomography of abdomen and its association with prevalence of accessory inferior right hepatic vein
Authors: Sharma Madhurima , Verma Nikita , Kapila Preeti , Sood Dinesh , Chauhan Narvir Singh 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Purpose
To determine the prevalence of portal vein variations in patients undergoing routine contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CECT) of the abdomen. Secondary objective was to determine any association between variant portal venous anatomy and prevalence of accessory inferior right hepatic vein (IRHV).
Materials and methods
A retrospective review of 500 patients was performed who underwent routine CECT abdomen over a period of six months. A total of 406 patients were included in the study (N = 406). Thin axial, multiplanar reformatted and maximum intensity projection computed tomography (CT) images were used to determine variant portal venous anatomy. In a subset of 381 patients with adequate opacification of hepatic veins, presence of an accessory IRHV was also noted.
Results
Normal type I portal venous anatomy was present in 314 out of 406 patients (77.34%). Variant portal venous anatomy was encountered in 22.66% cases. Type III portal vein (right posterior portal vein as first branch of main portal vein) was the most common variant seen in 9.61% of cases. Type II portal vein (trifurcation of main portal vein) was seen in 7.14% cases. There was no statistically significant difference between prevalence of IRHV in patients with normal and variant portal venous anatomy (p value = 0.145)
Conclusion
It is not uncommon to encounter portal venous variations on routine CECT abdomen. Type III portal vein was most commonly encountered variant in our study. Recognition of variant portal venous anatomy is important for surgeons and interventional radiologists.
Drought dynamics in mixed climate regions: insights for water resource management and climate adaptation strategies
Authors: KORKMAZ Meral , KURIQI Alban 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Global warming and climate change are causing temperatures to rise, which is having a negative impact on water resources. Climate change is a worldwide problem that affects and will continue to affect the frequency and intensity of natural disasters in many regions of the world. Tunceli region in Turkey, which until ten years ago was known as an environmentally friendly city with abundant water resources and frequent rainfall, is experiencing a decrease in precipitation during the snowy winter season. This situation has made the investigation of climate change impacts an important issue in the region. Therefore, effective climate change adaptation strategies need to be developed. To determine these strategies, in this study, we assessed drought conditions using drought indices such as Standardized Precipitation Index (SPI), Reconnaissance Drought Index (RDI), Normal Precipitation Index (PNI), and Aridity Index (AI). The SPI and RDI analyses were performed in annual reference periods on a time scale of 3, 6, 9, and 12 months using temperature, precipitation, and evaporation data. Consequently, the SPI and RDI results were compared, and both indices show similar behavior in dry, wet, and normal seasons. Nevertheless, RDI shows less variation between different time scales, which is an advantage over SPI and is probably due to the inclusion of potential evapotranspiration in RDI. The variations in PNI between humid and dry sub-humid categorizations throughout the years, combined with the AI results, indicate that the Tunceli region predominantly experiences a climate ranging from dry sub-humid to semi-arid. This study could help decision-makers take effective measures to become more resilient to climate change in temperate climate regions and take important steps toward sustainable water resources management.
Learning Cooperation Without Social interaction: Reciprocal Altruism in Rats with a Simulated Opponent
Authors: Delmas Guillermo E. , Marino Melani , Lew Sergio E. , Zanutto B. Silvano 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

In reciprocal altruism, unrelated individuals engage in behaviors that benefit others at some cost to themselves. While Trivers’theory of reciprocal altruism explains how natural selection can favor cooperation (or reciprocity) even among unrelatedindividuals, the mechanisms underlying this behavior remain elusive. Studies using the Iterated Prisoner’s Dilemma (iPD) havedemonstrated reciprocal altruism in monkeys and recently, with positive and negative reinforcement along with a well-definedreward contrast, in rats, which exhibit high levels of mutual cooperation. Here, we ask whether this learning can be explainedby long-term reward maximization, without any social interaction. We replaced the live opponent rat with a simulated oneincapable of errors. Interestingly, rats still exhibited high levels of mutual cooperation. This suggests that social interaction,while potentially important, may not be strictly necessary for rats to learn reciprocal altruism within the iPD framework.